There has been much discussion and questions pertaining to the Photo Identification Badge Regulation since the implementation by the Pennsylvania Department of Health in December of 2011. Physician practices have been waiting for clarification to the regulation from DOH and as of July 9, 2012, we have finally received some additional information pertaining to this law.
The Department of Health has stated that the identification badge must contain the following:
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A recent photograph of the employee
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The employee’s full name to include first and last name
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The employee’s title
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The name of the employee’s health care facility or employment agency.
The regulation went further on to state that the employee photograph must be updated at least every four years. The employee’s title is to be the designation contained on the professional license, certification or registration of the employee. If however, the employee does not possess a professional license, certificate or registration the title is to be the designation which most accurately describes the employee’s job function. The title is not to be abbreviated and should be as large as possible in block type and occupy one-half inch tall strip as close to the bottom edge of the badge as practicable.
“Direct Care” has also been defined as follows: “The actual delivery of health care services or assistance with activities of daily living to a consumer or patient.” The regulation clarifies that the requirements apply to individuals involved in face-to-face, hands on care of patients and consumers.
For private owned physician office, compliance is now. For physician offices which are wholly owned or wholly operated by a Hospital the effective date for compliance is June 1, 2015.
There are exceptions to this regulation, for example due to religious beliefs and employee safety. For more detailed information regarding these exceptions and requirements practices must have in place please go to www.POMAA-PA.com.