Q: A 16-year-old patient has admitted to extensive substance abuse, which is documented in his medical record. His father is requesting the record. Must we obtain the patient's authorization prior to releasing?
A: Under
federal law (42 CFR, part 2), records from substance abuse treatment
facilities receive special protection and facilities may not release them
without written patient authorization, regardless of the patient's age.
State laws vary regarding the privacy rights of minors. If
your facility qualifies as a substance abuse treatment facility, then these
laws apply to you. Your legal counsel will advise you on this point. However,
obtaining patient authorization to release information in this situation is
advised. Ensure that parents and their teens are aware of the potential limits
and rules of medical record privacy.