Use of Social Media
Distribution of sensitive and confidential information is protected under HIPAA and FERPA whether discussed through traditional communication channels or through social media. Also note that students must adhere to the MACC Social Media Policy as approved by the Board of Trustees.
Social media includes text, images, audio and video communicated through such tools as blogs, Twitter, social networks such as Facebook, professional networks such as LinkedIn, video sharing such as YouTube, audio sharing such as podcasts, photo sharing such as Flickr, and any other internet based social media application similar in purpose of function. Use of social media is prohibited while performing direct patient care activities. As a Surgical Technology student, you must recognize that you always have an ethical and legal obligation to maintain patient privacy and confidentiality. HIPPA guidelines must always be followed. Ultimately, you have sole responsibility for what you post. Promptly report any identified breach of confidentiality or privacy.
Do not post confidential or proprietary information about MACC, clinical facilities, patients/clients, or others with whom one has contact in the role of a MACC Surgical Technology student. Patient privacy must be maintained in all communications. Do not disclose information that may be used to identify patients or their health condition(s). (Remember: De-identified information may be recognized by patients, their families, or their employers.) All social media policies set forth by MACC and clinical sites will be strictly enforced. Each student is legally responsible for individual postings and may be subject to liability if individual postings are found defamatory, harassing, or in violation of any other applicable law. Students may also be liable if individual postings include confidential or copyrighted information.