Ascend Recovery Center is committed to protecting the privacy of client protected health information, often called PHI. This notice explains how we may use and share client health information and describes client rights under the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and related laws. We are required by law to keep client health information private, to provide this notice, and to follow the terms of the notice currently in effect.
How we use and disclose client health information
We use and disclose client protected health information for treatment, payment, and health care operations. These uses allow us to coordinate care and run our programs responsibly.
Treatment
We use client health information to provide, coordinate, and manage care. For example, our clinicians, nurses, and providers may share information with each other so the treatment plan is consistent as the client moves through levels of care.
Payment
We use client health information to bill and receive payment from the client's health plan. For example, we may share information with the client's insurer to verify coverage, obtain authorization, and process claims for the services provided.
Health care operations
We use client health information to support the quality and operation of our programs, including clinical review, staff training, accreditation, and improving the care we provide.
Other uses that may be permitted or required
In certain situations, the law permits or requires us to use or disclose client health information without the client's written authorization. Substance use disorder records receive additional protection under federal law, and we follow those heightened rules where they apply.
- When required by law or in response to a valid court order
- For public health activities and to prevent a serious threat to health or safety
- For health oversight, audits, and accreditation reviews
- To appropriate authorities when abuse, neglect, or domestic violence is suspected
- To coroners, medical examiners, or funeral directors as allowed by law
Uses that require client authorization
Most uses and disclosures that are not described above will be made only with the client's written authorization. This includes most sharing of psychotherapy notes and any sale of health information. A client may revoke their authorization in writing at any time, except to the extent we have already acted on it.
Client rights under HIPAA
Clients have important rights regarding their protected health information. To exercise any of these rights, contact our Privacy Officer using the details below.
- The right to inspect and request a copy of their health information
- The right to request a correction to information the client believes is incomplete or inaccurate
- The right to request restrictions on certain uses and disclosures
- The right to request confidential communications through a specific method or location
- The right to receive an accounting of certain disclosures we have made
- The right to receive a paper copy of this notice, even if the client agreed to receive it electronically
How to file a complaint
If a client believes their privacy rights have been violated, they may file a complaint with our Privacy Officer, or with the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights. We will not retaliate against anyone for filing a complaint. No one will be penalized in any way for raising a concern.
Changes to this notice
We may change this notice and make the new terms effective for all protected health information we maintain. When we make a material change, we will post the updated notice and revise the last reviewed date on this page. Clients may ask for a copy of the current notice at any time.
Questions about client health information?
Our Privacy Officer is glad to help clients understand their rights and how we protect their information.