Minneapolis Therapy & Marriage Counseling

Ayd and Cavanagh Psychological Services
4004  24th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55406
612-229-1234

NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES

PRIVACY AND FEE-FOR-SERVICE CLIENTS

Minneapolis Therapy and Marriage Counseling is concerned about your privacy. For clients who are especially interested in privacy and confidentiality, Minneapolis Therapy and Marriage Counseling allows discretion and prudence. Our therapy practice is not connected to a larger system. Our reasonable fee-for-service rates provide an option for individuals who do not want insurance involvement or electronic medical record keeping. When private payment arrangements are made, therapy is strictly between client and therapist and not part of a larger system with numerous personnel. We have found some clients are especially concerned about their privacy rights, and therefore appreciate this option.

Please note: Minneapolis Therapy and Marriage Counseling is a mandated reporting agency and adheres to all legal, judicial, and health safety regulations. Upon initiation of therapy, each client is given an explanation of limits of confidentiality and legal situations in which privacy cannot be protected.

HIPAA

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.

Minneapolis Therapy and Marriage Counseling pledges 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.

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