Next

Our clients have the right to receive services confidentially.

Only if we keep their care confidential, can we serve them to the best of our ability.

•Obtaining correct, coherent, legal authorization shows you respect clients and their right to privacy.

•We are all held legally responsible if we ignore HIPAA and confidentiality requirements.

Next

Talking about a client without permission (a release) destroys the trusting relationship you’ve built.

Next

We must have a valid release of information to talk to anyone besides the client’s legal guardian.

A valid release:

Must be filled out completely!

Must be specific as to information obtained or disclosed

Must have specifics regarding organization or entity receiving/obtaining information

Must have expiration dates

Must be signed by client (12 and over,) guardian, and witness

Next

If ROIs are not specific or filled out correctly, this leaves the door open for any and all information to be transferred without the client’s knowledge or consent.

Make sure the client and guardian are aware of what information being transferred and that they understand the implications and what it means.

Directions are on the back of the ROI.

NEVER have anyone sign a blank

or incomplete release!

Next

Client files must be kept locked in filing cabinets when not being supervised by staff

Do not leave paperwork, notes,

sticky notes, etc. with client info

lying out where visitors and other

clients can view

Original files may never leave the building

Billings and paperwork (including copies for court, etc.) that are taken home must be locked in the trunk of the car (locked and out of sight)

Ellen Example:555-4123Tuesday

2pm

Next

YOU MUST SHRED ANY AND ALL DOCUMENTS THAT CONTAIN CLIENT

INFORMATION! DO NOT THROW THEM IN THE

GARBAGE CAN/WASTEBASKET!!!!

Next

Do not include a client’s name or information in another client’s paperwork

Conversations regarding clients should not be conducted where others outside of the direct treatment team can hear

Emails and other communication should include client’s initials-not their full name

Be very careful when checking voice

mail or work emails at home or from

a smart phone

Next

Electronic devices (e.g. computers, thumb drives) with client info must be password protected

Office computers should be logged off/locked when not in use or in direct sight

Treatment plans, when not in immediate use, must be kept locked in the client’s file. They cannot be left in/on desks or in bags.

Next

If you find that information about a client has been released without proper authorization, you MUST REPORT THE BREACH TO THE DIRECTOR OF QUALITY IMPROVEMENT, and your supervisor.

Although it can be hard to admit

it when we slip up, our agency

is legally required to track all

confidentiality breaches.

Next

What would you think if your child’s doctor did not keep medical files private? Would you feel comfortable talking about your health concerns with her?

Imagine if you overheard your therapist talking about another client. Do you think he also talks about you where other people can hear?

Next

When a family needs help from an agency like Children’s Home,

they are at their most vulnerable.

How do you want to be treated at times like this in your life?

Next

Please refer to the Employee Handbook for more information.

MUST COMPLETE:HIPAA/Confidentiality Training Form Below