Client Notice of Confidentiality

The confidentiality of mental health or alcohol and drug abuse patient records maintained by this program is protected by Federal laws and Regulations. Generally, the program may not say to a person outside the program that a client attends the program or disclose any information identifying a client as an alcohol, drug abuse, or mental health services recipient UNLESS:

  • The patient consents in writing,
  • The disclosure is allowed by a court order,
  • The disclosure is made to medical personnel in a medical emergency or to a qualified personnel for research, audits, or program evaluation.

Violation of these Federal laws and regulations by any program is a crime. Suspected violations may be reported to appropriate authorities in accordance with Federal regulations. Federal law and regulations do not protect any information about a crime committed by a client either at the program or against any person who works for the program or about any threat to commit such a crime. Federal laws and regulations do not protect any information about suspect child abuse or neglect from being reported under State law to appropriate State or local authorities.