Provision of Care, Treatment, and Services (PC) (Nursing Care Center / Nursing Care Center)
Texting - Use of Secure Text Messaging for Patient Care Orders
Modify | May 05, 2016
What is The Joint Commission's position on the use of secure texting to communicate orders?
Use of Secure Text Messaging for Patient Care Orders Is Not Acceptable. The Joint Commission, in collaboration with the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), have developed the following recommendations regarding texting of protected health information:
• All health care organizations should have policies prohibiting the use of unsecured text messaging (that is, short message service (SMS) text messaging from a personal mobile device) for communicating protected health information. TJC standard IM.02.01.01EP1 requires organizations to have a written policy addressing the privacy of health information. This requirement also extends to the privacy of health information transmitted though text messaging.
• TJC and CMS agree that computerized provider order entry (CPOE) should be the preferred method for submitting orders as it allows providers to directly enter orders into the electronic health record (EHR). CPOE helps ensure accuracy and allows the provider to view and respond to clinical decision support recommendation and alerts.
• In the event that a CPOE or written order cannot be submitted, a verbal order is acceptable. However, verbal orders should be used infrequently, and the use of verbal orders should be closely monitored to ensure that these are only used when it is impossible or impractical to use CPOE or written orders without delaying treatment. Verbal orders are not to be used for the convenience of the ordering practitioner.
The December 2016 Edition of Perspectives, The Official Newsletter of The Joint Commission, includes a comprehensive article on this issue. This publication is available to all accredited organizations via their Secure Extranet site, or as a subscription service through Joint Commission Resources at the following website: http://www.jcrinc.com/store/publications/periodicals/
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