The following categories describe different ways in which Orion Psychology and Therapy Collective may use and disclose health information. For each category, an explanation is provided along with examples. While not every specific use or disclosure is listed, all permitted uses and disclosures fall within one of these categories.
Federal privacy regulations allow health care providers with a direct treatment relationship with a patient or client to use or disclose personal health information without written authorization to carry out treatment, payment, or health care operations. Orion Psychology and Therapy Collective may also disclose protected health information for the treatment activities of another health care provider without requiring written authorization.
For example, if a clinician consults with another licensed health care provider regarding a patient’s condition, Orion Psychology and Therapy Collective is permitted to use and disclose personal health information to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of the patient’s mental health condition.
Disclosures for treatment purposes are not restricted by the minimum necessary standard, as therapists and other health care providers require full access to records to provide quality care. “Treatment” includes coordination and management of health care with third parties, consultations between health care providers, and referrals from one provider to another.
If a patient is involved in a lawsuit, Orion Psychology and Therapy Collective may disclose health information in response to a court or administrative order. Health information may also be disclosed in response to a subpoena, discovery request, or other lawful processes initiated by another party involved in the dispute. However, such disclosures will only occur if efforts have been made to notify the patient or obtain a protective order for the requested information.
Orion Psychology and Therapy Collective maintains “psychotherapy notes” as defined in 45 CFR § 164.501. Any use or disclosure of such notes requires patient authorization unless:
a. They are used for treatment purposes.
b. They are used for training or supervision of mental health practitioners to improve skills in counseling or therapy.
c. They are used in legal defense proceedings initiated by the patient.
d. They are used by the Secretary of Health and Human Services to investigate HIPAA compliance.
e. They are required by law, with the disclosure limited to what is legally necessary.
f. They are required for certain health oversight activities concerning the originator of the psychotherapy notes.
g. They are required by a coroner performing legally authorized duties.
h. They are necessary to prevent a serious threat to the health and safety of others.
Orion Psychology and Therapy Collective does not use or disclose protected health information (PHI) for marketing purposes.
Orion Psychology and Therapy Collective does not sell PHI as part of regular business operations.
Subject to legal limitations, Orion Psychology and Therapy Collective may use and disclose PHI without patient authorization under the following circumstances:
Orion Psychology and Therapy Collective may disclose PHI to a designated family member, friend, or other individuals involved in a patient’s care or payment for care unless the patient objects in whole or in part. If the patient is unable to provide consent in an emergency situation, consent may be obtained retroactively.
