Frequently Asked Questions

Question:

I need the condition of a patient who was brought to your hospital.  I do not have the patient’s name, but know where the accident occured.

Answer:

Since the passage of the federal Healthcare Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in 2004, hospitals are severely restricted with regard to the release of patient information. If a patient’s full first and last name is provided, HIPAA allows ONLY that patient’s condition to be released. Without a patient’s correct full first and last name, no information -- not even condition --can be released. We also cannot confirm patient names.

In an effort to help clarify what each patient condition means this is the list that is recommended by the American Hospital Association and used by Mountain View Hopsital.

UNDER ASSESSMENT:
Patient condition is still being assessed and there is no condition to release at this time.

CRITICAL:
Patient vital signs are unstable and not within normal limits. Patient may be unconscious. Indicators are unfavorable.

SERIOUS:
Patient vital signs may be unstable and not within normal limits. Patient is acutely ill. Indicators are questionable.

FAIR:
Patient vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious, but may be uncomfortable. Indicators are favorable.

GOOD:
Patient vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious and comfortable. Indicators are excellent.

TREATED AND RELEASED:
Patient received treatment but was not admitted.