Medical malpractice attorneys, regulatory agencies and news outlets are increasingly watching the social media accounts of health care organizations and their employees. They are looking for evidence of noncompliance, especially selfies and other smartphone photos in the operating room. Such photos can serve as evidence of costly violations.
In the past year, Compliance has investigated eight incidents of inappropriate social media posting. Some of those incidents were reported to the health system by the public and resulted in corrective action.
Even well-meaning photos can unintentionally violate privacy rules or clinical standards — and may reflect poorly on individuals and the organization.
We’re proud of the incredible work happening at UC Davis Health, and we support sharing that pride when it’s done properly and responsibly. To protect our patients, yourself and our reputation, please keep the following in mind:
DO NOT take photos in the OR and other clinical areas and post them on social media without permission from Public Affairs, reachable at publicaffairs@health.ucdavis.edu or 4-9040.
In any photos taken, you must ensure that everyone pictured is following all attire and infection control protocols. A picture of a staff member not properly attired could be seen by the Joint Commission as photographic evidence of a rule violation.
Do not take photos within or near the sterile field in the operating room. Smartphones are dirty and pose a contamination risk.
Always obtain written HIPAA authorization from a patient before sharing an image that includes any part of a patient, even if they appear unidentifiable or have verbally agreed.
Be aware of your surroundings: Avoid capturing patients or sensitive information in the background, on video screens or in reflections.
Photos taken related to clinical work must NOT be stored in the cloud. Such photos should be captured on a UC Davis-approved device with cloud backup turned off, and then properly stored in a HIPAA-protected manner and location.
When in doubt, check with your supervisor, Public Affairs or Compliance before photographing or posting.
For more information, see UC Davis Health policies:
