A lack of accurate information can lead to confusion and misinformation. During a disease outbreak, this can often exacerbate an already tenuous situation amongst the general population. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, inconsistent messaging regarding mask-wearing and vaccination created public distrust and hesitancy, hindering efforts to control the virus’s spread.
The absence of timely information can delay interventions allowing diseases to spread unchecked. According to a Journal of Contingencies and Crisis Management study, “Public relations scholars emphasize the importance of strategic communication during a public health crisis for organizations to build quality relationships with publics and influence their behaviors in a way that is desired by the organizations.” To share accurate information communication strategies often include traditional media and the relay of information from reliable sources like the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
Healthcare organizations have the responsibility to collect and verify data regarding outbreaks while also disseminating only what is found to be accurate to the public and stakeholders. This process is heavily reliant on established protocols to ensure information is reliable and actionable. Organizations therefore have to collaborate with public health authorities to provide updates on infection rates, preventive measures, and treatment options.
The agencies accessible to healthcare organizations include:
In the case of an outbreak, HIPAA compliant email provides a timely and accurate form of communication. This helps healthcare organizations share quick updates on evolving situations, guidelines for prevention, and necessary alerts regarding public health measures directly to patients. Detailed messages can be created and kept as a written record of communications which can be a valuable reference in a clinical setting.
For patients less inclined to use email, HIPAA compliant text messaging, like Paubox, offers a similarly secure solution. Although longer-form messages might not be as accessible through this medium, links to government agency updates can easily be shared, and short advice regarding the outbreak protocols can be disseminated at the push of a button.
Misinformation refers to false or misleading information that is shared without the intent to deceive. Disinformation is deliberately false information created and disseminated with the intent to mislead or manipulate others. This can involve spreading lies for political gain or to create confusion among the public.
Healthcare providers may be subject to malpractice lawsuits if patients suffer harm due to reliance on incorrect information provided by a healthcare professional. Providers may also be subject to disciplinary actions by state medical boards.
Patient consent is not required for healthcare organizations to share disease outbreak communication that pertains to public health. When it comes to sharing information about disease outbreaks, healthcare organizations typically operate under the premise that such communications are necessary for protecting public health and preventing the spread of disease.