Is it against HIPAA to mention a doctor's name?

[xmelax35]

Is it against HIPAA to mention a doctors name in anyway? I was told in a group (not on there - just another group I belong to for support) that it is illegal to mention a doctor's name in anyway on the internet or otherwise (negative or postitive) because it is a clear violation of the HIPAA law. I have been trying to look through that law but I don't see where it says anything about that. It was pertaining to a visit I had with the doctor.

Thanks ahead of time.

[xmelax35]

Thank you very much for the information. I appreciate it.

[Amir Mostafaie]

Dear xmelax35,

I am not aware of a blanket rule within HIPAA that prevents one from mentioning a doctor's name, however the Provision II (2) of HIPAA provides federal protections for personal health information held by covered entities (such as doctors, dentists, pharmacies, hospitals, etc) and gives patients an array of rights with respect to that information. So while it is against the HIPAA law for Dr. Smith to announce publicly that John Doe is his patient, I am not aware that the same rule applies to patients mentioning their doctors’ name.Having said that online Forums may have their own rules.

Sincerely,

Amir Mostafaie