W/C & HIPAA

[Postman]

I have recently been told that a self-insured employer can hire an adjuster with little or no credentials and release a claimant's PHI (private healthcare information) to the adjuster. This adjuster is not governed by HIPAA and can disseminate this information at will. Also that pre-existing conditions are being used to defeat claims on the basis of false information on applications for employment.

I feel that the WOOTEN / Sarah Palin WORKERS COMPENSATION issue brought to light is a perfect example of this. At the time, I felt it was an isolated incedence of abuse "under the colour". Since then however, I have seen several more instances and seems to be evolving into a trend of fraud even blackmail.

If in fact this is true, I would like some guidance. I need to start referring people to this site for the correct answers. Thinking I had working understanding of HIPAA, I am questioning if I am so far off-base that I am not even on the stadium grounds.

It normally cannot be released by ANY third party unless you have somehow signed and agreed.