Who Can See Your Information (Role-Based Access)

Audience: all

When you use telemedicine services, your personal health information is shared with different people involved in your care. Role-based access means that only authorized individuals can see specific parts of your information, depending on their role. This protects your privacy while allowing healthcare providers to give you safe and effective care. Understanding who can access your data helps you feel more confident about using telemedicine. Typically, your doctor, nurses, and other healthcare team members who are directly involved in your care have access. Administrative staff may see limited information to help with appointments and billing. Technology teams may access data only to keep systems running, but they do not see your personal health details. Knowing these roles and protections can help you ask questions and feel secure when sharing your information online.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• You receive unexpected requests for your personal health information—do not share and contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• You notice unfamiliar people accessing your health records—report this to your healthcare provider or the telemedicine service.
• You experience technical issues that expose your information during a telemedicine visit—end the session and notify your provider.

What telemedicine can do

• Sharing your health information securely with authorized healthcare providers.
• Allowing you to view your own medical records online.
• Managing appointment scheduling and reminders with limited access to personal data.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Preventing all possible unauthorized access—security depends on multiple factors.
• Handling complex legal disputes about data privacy.
• Providing in-person verification of identity or consent.

What Is Role-Based Access?

Role-based access is a way to protect your health information by giving different people access only to the parts they need. For example, a doctor might see your full medical history, while a receptionist sees only your appointment times. This system helps keep your information private and secure.

Who Typically Has Access to Your Information?

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Why Is Role-Based Access Important?

It helps protect your privacy by limiting who can see sensitive information. It also ensures that healthcare providers have the information they need to give safe and effective care. This balance supports both your privacy and your health.

How Is Your Information Protected?

Telemedicine platforms use security measures like passwords, encryption, and secure networks. Role-based access is part of these protections. Always use strong passwords and secure internet connections to help keep your information safe.

What Can You Do to Protect Your Information?

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How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure you have a secure and private internet connection.
• Use a personal device with updated security software.
• Have your identification and any relevant medical records ready.
• Understand the telemedicine platform's privacy policy.
• Prepare questions about how your data will be used and who can access it.

After your tele-visit

• Review any information shared during the visit for accuracy.
• Follow up with your healthcare provider if you have privacy concerns.
• Change your passwords regularly for telemedicine accounts.
• Monitor your health records for any unauthorized access.
• Report any suspicious activity to your healthcare provider or telemedicine service.

FAQs

What does role-based access mean for my privacy?

Role-based access means that only certain people can see parts of your health information based on their role. This helps protect your privacy by limiting access to those who need it for your care.

Can I see who has accessed my health information?

Many telemedicine platforms allow you to view access logs or ask your healthcare provider for this information. It's important to know who has seen your data.

What should I do if I think my information was seen by someone unauthorized?

Contact your healthcare provider or the telemedicine service immediately. They can investigate and take steps to protect your information.

How can I keep my telemedicine information safe?

Use strong passwords, secure internet connections, and keep your devices updated. Also, be cautious about sharing your login details.

Does role-based access mean my information is completely safe?

Role-based access is an important protection, but no system is perfect. It's one part of keeping your information secure along with other safety measures.

Sources

1. Health Information Privacy — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Patient Privacy and Confidentiality — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Protecting Your Health Information — Mayo Clinic: Patient Care and Health Information.
4. Privacy and Security in Telehealth — Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (AHRQ).

This guide provides general information about telemedicine privacy and role-based access. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your health or privacy concerns.