Patient Privacy FAQs

Q: What is the “facility directory”?
A: The facility directory is the hospitals mechanism for keeping track of your locations while you are in the hospital.

Q: Who uses the facility directory and why?
A: The facility directory is used by staff throughout the hospital when: a caller or visitor to the hospital wants to know your location (unit, room number, telephone number), if a member of the clergy is trying to locate you, or by health care professionals who may be assigned to your care.

Q: What happens if I choose not to be included in the facility directory?
A: Your location (unit, room number, telephone number) even your presence within the hospital would not be given out to anyone that called or inquired about you including any member of the clergy. Also, no mail or flowers would be delivered to you.

Q: How do I choose to restrict release/disclosure of my PHI?
A: Upon admission, you determine what information if any is communicated and to whom it is given. For example, you may decide that no information is communicated to anyone, or perhaps you want to designate one person only to know about your care. You may also dictate how and where the hospital sends you written information including follow-up appointments.

Q: Who do I contact if I have further questions or concerns about my PHI?
A: You should contact a Patient Advocate through the Patient Advocacy office at 860.972.1100 or extension 21100 (from any hospital phone).

Hartford HealthCare Compliance Line