Main Line Health media guidelines

On-site media policies

All members of the media must be escorted by a Communications Department staff member when visiting Main Line Health facilities.

Patient privacy

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations are intended to protect the privacy of medical information. Our department is committed to providing excellent service to media while guaranteeing that we comply with HIPAA regulations and respect patient privacy.

Patient conditions

Please contact us at communications@mlhs.org to request patient conditions. You must provide the patient's first and last name with the correct spelling. We will be able to provide a one-word condition:

  • Undetermined
  • Good
  • Fair
  • Serious
  • Critical
  • Treated and Released
  • Treated and Transferred

Patient sources

Besides providing expert commentary, we also make arrangements for patients to speak about specific conditions or treatments. Please be aware that we can only arrange interviews with patients willing to sign a form waiving their privacy rights under HIPAA regulation. We will do our best to facilitate patient interviews while meeting reporters' deadlines.

Filming, photography and taping guidelines

For our patients' safety and privacy, express permission and an escort from the Department of Communications are required for all photo, film or video shooting at all Main Line Health facilities.

Photography and filming/taping will be allowed only during times that are least likely to be disruptive to patient safety and privacy and to visitors.

For commercial filming

Anyone who requests commercial filming, taping or photography on the campus is required to work with Main Line Health’s Communications Department.

The following must be submitted in writing about the proposed project:

  • Location(s) requested
  • Date and time of shooting
  • Length of shooting
  • Number of people involved in each day's shooting
  • Type of activity to be filmed, taped or photographed
  • List of equipment and vehicles used in connection with the project

All scripts must be reviewed and approved by Main Line Health Communications. No mention is to be made of or recognition given to Main Line Health unless specifically authorized.

A certificate of insurance is required, naming Main Line Health, its officers, employees and agents as additional insured, providing comprehensive general liability insurance, including personal injury and property damage.