Patient Information Policy

This information is intended for members of the media only.

Family members, please call the patient information desk at 401-444-5421.

The Miriam Hospital is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of our patients and their medical information. The media relations staff provides patient conditions in accordance with the American Hospital Association's guidelines contained in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Procedure to Obtain a Patient's Condition

To inquire about a patient at The Miriam Hospital, journalists may contact the media relations staff.

• Journalists must have the patient's full name.
• Our staff can only provide one-word descriptions about a patient's general condition (see below)               
• The release of any medical information beyond a one-word condition requires written authorization by the patient or the patient's legal representative.
• We will acknowledge the death of a patient only after next-of-kin have been notified.

Definition of General Patient Conditions

• Undetermined: Patient is awaiting physician and 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.

According to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the condition "stable" is not used.