Media Policy

Carle Public Relations will strive to cooperate with the media to the fullest extent possible. If information is not readily available, we will work to find an answer and return the call as soon as possible.

All media interviews, photographs or filming in which any patients, physicians, personnel or students are involved must be arranged by and cleared through Public Relations.

While on the property of any Carle owned or operated facility or clinical practice, members of the media must always be accompanied by a Public Relations staff member or authorized Carle representative designated by Public Relations. Media crews, reporters, videographers, photographers or others who intend to record and distribute information and enter any Carle property without clearance will be stopped by Security until a Public Relations staff member can be contacted.

Condition Reports

Public Relations staff is able to provide a one-word patient condition report if the inquiry specifically contains the patient’s name. The following definitions are used when describing the medical condition of a patient:

• Good: Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious and comfortable. Outlook for recovery is good to excellent.
• Fair: Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious but may be uncomfortable or may have minor complications. Favorable outlook.
• Serious: Vital signs may be unstable or not within normal limits. Acutely ill with questionable outlook.
• Critical: Vital signs are unstable or not within normal limits. Patient may be unconscious. Indicators are unfavorable.
• NOTE: The term “stable” is not to be used as a condition.

This information may be obtained by calling the media information line, (217) 383-4602, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. After hours and on weekends, please call the Communications Center at (217) 383-3311 to page a house officer.

Carle’s primary obligation is the welfare of our patients. This media policy is in effect to secure the confidentiality of our patients in concurrence with the American Hospital Association and HIPAA guidelines.