HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation and interview with key personnel on August 31, 2011, it was determined that the hospital failed to prevent unauthorized persons from gaining physical access to medical records.

Findings:

1. On August 31, 2011, at 8:25 A.M., a surveyor observed that the LMP Women's Center stores medical records on open shelves located in the receptionist area. When the surveyor inquired about the accessibility of the records in the evening when the cleaning staff are present, the surveyor was informed by the Practice Manager that the cleaning staff have access to the records.

2. On August 31, 2011, at 9:05 A.M., a surveyor observed that the medical records are located on unlocked shelving units in LMP Orthopaedic's. When the surveyor inquired about accessibility of the records to the cleaning staff, the Practice Manager informed the surveyor that the cleaning staff have access to the records in the evening when no practice staff are present.

3. These findings were confirmed with the Practice Managers and the Maintenance Supervisor at the time of the findings on August 31, 2011. Additionally, they confirmed that cleaning staff would not be authorized to have access to medical records.