At Community Memorial Health System we recognize our responsibility to the news media to provide information of public interest. However, we must balance the media’s interest with our responsibility to protect patients’ rights to privacy and confidentiality, including the right not to be interviewed or photographed without their written consent.

• Media inquiries: 805/652-5002, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Evenings/Weekends: 805/798-2071. All news media representatives (whether on the telephone or in person) should identify themselves and the organization they represent. When on Hospital premises, all members of the media must be accompanied by a staff member at all times. This policy is in effect regardless of whether the request for an interview or photograph was initiated by a patient, relative, physician, volunteer, staff member, or by the media organization itself.

Guidelines for Release of Patient Information
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) became effective April 14, 2003 and mandates how healthcare providers may release information. Please review the guidelines for what the media can expect when working with the staff at any of our facilities.