Frequently Asked Questions About PatientSecure

Learn about PatientSecure — a hand-scanning device that reads each patient's unique palm vein pattern — which is in use at Sharp Rees-Stealy facilities and Sharp hospitals.

How does PatientSecure work?
PatientSecure uses biometric identification technology to verify your identity. It uses harmless, near-infrared light to illuminate the vein patterns in your hand. The stored data pattern is used at future visits to speed up your check-in process and protect your identity.

Why is Sharp HealthCare using PatientSecure?
PatientSecure helps us streamline the check-in process by eliminating the need for your Social Security number every time you check in. It also helps avoid medical identity theft and allows us to identify you if unconscious in an emergency situation at any of our facilities.

Why do I need to provide my government-issued ID to enroll in PatientSecure?
We must verify your identity before you enroll in PatientSecure to protect your safety and medical identity.

Is my privacy at risk if I enroll?
Absolutely not. With PatientSecure, you will have a higher level of protection. Personal identification numbers and passwords can be stolen and fingerprints can be duplicated. PatientSecure scans the veins in your hand, which cannot be tampered with or stolen. The vein structure is so unique even identical twins can be identified using this technology.

Is my palm or vein image kept on file?
No. When your palm is scanned, the image is converted into a secured digital code. The digital code cannot be used to re-create your palm image.

Can anyone use my image data?
No. All health care practitioners and organizations are required by HIPAA regulations to store your personal health information in a secured location. Only by your palm vein scan can you prove your identity and allow others access to your health information.

How accurate is palm vein biometrics?
Palm vein biometrics is 100 times more accurate than a fingerprint.

Does it work on children?
Your vein pattern is defined at birth and does not change. At Sharp HealthCare, we scan patients 12 years and older.

Can either hand be used to scan?
At Sharp HealthCare, our policy is to scan the right hand for consistency.

How is the device cleaned?
This non-medical equipment is cleaned using an alcohol solution.

For More Information
PatientSecure is another way Sharp is protecting you and your medical information. To learn more about this new technology, call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm.