John J. Blum - Confidentiality

John J. Blum, MS, MSEd, LCADC, LPC Confidentiality

If you choose to engage in counseling or psychotherapy services with me, please be advised that

	you do so voluntarily,
	you are aware that the practice of such services is not an exact science,
	no guarantees have been made or implied as to the outcome of such treatments or services.

Furthermore, your participation in such services entitles you to limitations as described in Title 42 of the Code of Federal Regulations governing the confidentiality of mental health and alcohol/drug abuse information (42 CFR - Part 2), as well as other federal and state laws further regulating protected health information (PHI) in order to facilitate treatment, payment, or healthcare operations (TPO). Information in your patient record will only be released to external parties or agencies through a separate, written authorization signed by you, except under the following circumstances:

	In response to an immediate or imminent medical emergency
	In response to a clear and present danger to yourself or someone else
	In response to suspected child or elder abuse/neglect
	In response to an order of the court
	In order to facilitate coordination and continuity of care planning with other healthcare professionals actively engaged in your treatment, including persons at other facilities where you are being referred (medical, correctional, etc.) who require such information for admission and ongoing care
	In response to third party payers, to the extent that facilitates payment and does not compromise clinical confidentiality
	In response to external reviewing agencies when necessary to obtain or renew certifications or licenses as a provider of psychotherapy and related services

Information made available under this section shall be limited to that information relevant and necessary to the purpose for which the information is being sought. Otherwise, an Authorization for the Release of Confidential Information is required.

NOTE: Federal rules based on 42 CFR - Part 2 restrict the use of client information to criminally investigate or prosecute any alcohol or drug abuse client.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding confidentiality of information, please contact me by e-mail.