HIPAA (Heath Insurance and Portability and Accountability Act) mandates that all health care entities post their policy regarding their privacy practices and clients sign their names stating they received this policy. This notification became law October 15, 2003.

This document explains how, when and with whom your health information will be shared. The goal of this act is to provide a higher level of confidentiality and protection regarding your health information.

When your health information can be shared without your written authorization:

Health information can be shared for purposes of treatment, payment or health care operations. Other instances include:
* Mandated reporting for victims of abuse or neglect
* Public health activities
* Judicial proceedings
* Law enforcement activities
* Notification to family members/friends when it is in the best interest of the client (when you are a danger to yourself or others)

When your written authorization is needed to share your health information:
in instances of marketing, medical research or fundraising

Please note: Health information does not include therapists’ notes taken during individual therapy sessions, unless mandated by judicial proceedings.

Ayd & Cavanagh LLC pledge to uphold the HIPAA privacy Act: The protection of your health information is of primary importance to us. If you have any questions regarding this issue, please do not hesitate to talk to your therapist. We can provide you with additional resources defining and explaining the privacy act. If you feel your privacy rights have been violated and wish to complain, please speak to your therapist, insurance provider or the Office of Civil Rights.