There are numerous reasons a person that is attending an addiction recovery center would be worried about their identity and information being released or exposed. These reasons can vary from their employment or even family finding information that may cause them to pass judgement. Luckily, there are many laws that protect patients of all kinds and this includes those who go to an addiction recovery center. It is also important that you call your treatment provider to ask about their own privacy policy and this can help you feel comfortable and secure about your decision.
Under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996, the government developed privacy laws to help secure and keep your information safe. All treatment centers must abide by these regulations and they are not permitted to discharge any of your personal information or else they face penalties that can result in hefty fines and possibly losing their licenses.
What Other Regulations Specifically Protect Those Attending Recovery Centers?
The Confidentiality of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Patient Records (42 CFR Part 2) issued in 1975 and revised in 1987 is a law that indicates that rehabilitation facilities must not release information that can determine someone has or currently is attending a recovery center. The only way this information can be released is if you sign a form and release the information yourself.
Are There Any Other Laws That Protect My Privacy?
HIPAA laws were intended to provide people with more authority over their confidentiality and health information anytime they receive medical care or treatment care of any kind.
Addiction centers, such as ours, hospitals, and other similar agencies operating under HIPAA laws need to:
- Properly educate employees about privacy
- Apply methods that will keep the amount of people informed of private information to the smallest possible
- Ensure safety of attendees private information
We take the privacy of our clients immensely serious and you can be sure that while receiving the absolute best care, your information will be kept private.
If you are ready to begin your life and start real change, call us today. We are available 24 hours a day, prepared to answer any questions or concerns you may have! So give us a call us today at 833-610-1174 and one of our counselors will be happy to assist you.