Records and Confidentiality

Confidentiality

Services provided by Umbrella of Hope, Inc. are confidential and protected by HIPAA laws.  You have the right to review the Privacy Practices and you have a right to request a copy of the Privacy Practices.  A copy of the Privacy Practices is kept in this office for your review at any time. The counselor is required by law to disclose information in the following cases:

  • Suspected abuse or neglect
  • Danger to self or others
  • Court order

Umbrella of Hope Counseling Services and/or your counselor may press charges in the event of a suspected crime by a client against the counselor or agency.  The counselor and/or agency may release any information that would aid in the investigation process.

Please be advised that the counselor has a “duty to warn” any individual or group of individuals against whom a threat is made.  The counselor does not need the client or guardian’s permission to warn the individual or group.

Client Records

Medical records are confidential and protected by HIPAA laws (See HIPAA laws posted in the lobby).  

  • The client or legal guardian has a right to review the medical record.
  • At the client’s written request or by court order, records may be released to a 3rd party, such as other mental health professionals, family physicians, Disability Determination Services, attorneys, Department of Social Services, insurance companies, etc.
  • Client records will be maintained for 6 years following termination of services.  Any insurance company or law requiring longer maintenance will supersede the 6 years.
  • 30 days notice is required for the transfer or records.
  • There is a fee of 1.00/per page for copying/transferring records.  The client or guardian is responsible for all postage required to mail records to any party.  There is a minimum charge of $25.00 for copying/transferring records. Fees subject to change