This lesson on Protecting Patients' Rights includes a complete training packet. Each in-service packet takes approximately one hour to complete and fully meets the Medicare in-service training requirements. As aides need training, you can make as many copies as you want - there's no restriction when used with aides assigned from your office location. Remember that Home Health Aides must have 12 hours of in-service training every year. LESSON OBJECTIVES Upon completion of this program, the home health aide will be able to: * Describe two methods of protecting patient records * Name three ways to show respect for patient's property * List two ways of allowing patients to assist in care planning. OVERVIEW The Conditions of Participation (COP) outline specific rights that all patients must be granted. The information about patients' rights must be given in writing. Most professional clinicians are well informed about these rights. However, many home health aides are not aware of all components comprising patient rights. Many states have additional requirements about patients' rights, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) privacy rule places special emphasis on protection of health information. Home health aides need to know about these rights and how to make certain they are not violated. The purpose of this in-service program is to provide information to home health aides regarding the rights of all patients, and how they can help to protect patients' rights.