Confidentiality Mandate

This program is required to communicate to each client that federal law and regulations protect the confidentiality of alcohol and drug abuse patient records. A summary of the laws and regulations must be given to each client. 

YOUR SUMMARY OF THE LAW IS PROVIDED BELOW: 

Confidentiality of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Patient Records: 

The confidentiality of 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 person attends the program, or disclose any information including identifying a client as an alcohol or drug user UNLESS: 

1) the client consents in writing; 
2) the disclosure is allowed by a court order; 
3) the disclosure is made to medical personnel in a medical emergency, or to qualified personnel for research, audit, or program evaluation; or 
4) the disclosure occurs between the ADAPS Staff, and Mental Health Staff of the Rutgers University Health Services, for the purpose of coordinating a treatment plan. 

Violations of the federal laws and regulations by a program are a crime. Suspected violations may be reported to appropriate authorities in accordance with federal regulations. 

Federal laws and regulations do not protect any information about a crime committed by a client either to 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 suspected child abuse or neglect from being reported under state law to appropriate state or local authorities. (See 42 U.S.C. 290dd-3 and 42 U.S.C. 290ee-3 for federal laws and 42 CFR - Part 2 for federal regulations.)

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