Counseling We understand how important it is that the information you share with us is kept absolutely confidential. There is no need for concern. Federal law requires that the information be treated as confidential and kept under lock and key. In fact, in order for us to discuss your confidential information with anyone outside our counseling center, you must sign a Consent of Release (se the Forms page).
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996(P.L.104-191) [HIPAA] was enacted by the U.S. Congress and signed by President Bill Clinton in 1996. Title II of HIPAA, known as the Administrative Simplification (AS) provisions, address the security and privacy of health data. The effective compliance date of the Privacy Rule was April 14, 2003. The HIPAA Privacy Rule regulates the use and disclosure of certain information held by "covered entities"- a term that includes clinical providers of both medical treatment and mental health. It establishes regulations for the use and disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI). PHI is any information held by a covered entity which concerns health status, provision of health care, or payment for health care that can be linked to an individual. Aside from informing medical insurance providers, clinicians must disclose PHI when required to do so by law, such as reporting suspected child abuse to state child welfare agencies or when there is a clear intent and expectation that an individual will cause harm to himself or herself or to others.
As for educational information of our clients, it must be protected in accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, 20 U.S.C. § 1232g and 34 CFR Part 99.31, 99.36, and 99.37. As such, no one will ever know of the academic status of clients supported without written permission from the individual.
Needless to say, if we released information regarding our clients without their permission, with the exceptions noted above, we would be in deep trouble. As such, rest easy, as your information is safe with us.
