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.