Reporters frequently call UAMS Communications staff members to request the condition of a patient at UAMS. If the patient has not opted out of the hospital directory, we can provide general patient condition information within the limitations imposed by the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). A patient’s full name (first and last) is required to obtain a condition report. Release of detailed information or information about patients requires written consent of the patient or legal representative. If the patient is a minor, legal consent of the patient’s parent or legal guardian is required. If a patient has exercised his or her right to opt out of the patient directory, we cannot provide a patient condition report nor confirm the patient’s presence in our hospital.

Under privacy rules, the following brief condition reports will be given in response to requests for patient information:

• Undetermined: Patient awaiting physician assessment.
• Good: Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious and comfortable. Indicators are excellent.
• Fair: Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious but may be uncomfortable. Indicators are favorable.
• Serious: Vital signs may be unstable and not within normal limits. Patient is acutely ill. Indicators are questionable.
• Critical: Vital signs are unstable and not within normal limits. Patient may be unconscious. Indicators are unfavorable .
• Deceased: A patient’s death cannot be reported or confirmed until efforts have been made by the medical team to notify the patient’s next-of-kin. At that time, and unless the deceased’s legal representative requests that the information be withheld, UAMS communications staff may report that the patient is deceased and the date and time of death. Additional information (such as cause of death) cannot be released without permission from the deceased’s legal representative.