The report details effective violence prevention programs and outlines individual recommendations for health professionals, schools, law enforcement, families and legislators. New Patient Privacy Regulations Issued Sweeping new privacy regulations restricting access to health information were published by the Department of Health and Human Services at the end of 2000. The rules apply to all health care providers, health plans and entities that process and transmit claims data. The regulations do not preempt or override stronger state laws. Concern about the range of the regulations is generating new reviews and inquiries.
Patients have the right to see and copy their own medical records.
Limits on Disclosure. For disclosures relating to treatment, payment, and health care operations, providers must obtain patient consent. Providers and plans are prohibited from releasing patient data to federal, state or local law enforcement. Providers, plans and clearinghouses are subject to civil and criminal penalties for violation of privacy laws. Psychotherapy notes are private to the psychotherapist with some exceptions where authorizations for use or disclosure are required.