Meticulous documentation is something that mental healthcare professionals put a lot of emphasis on. While documentation, one should make sure that they maintain the highest levels of confidentiality as it will build the much-needed trust making the treatment effective. While the need for information has increased dramatically, the vulnerability of electronic data makes clients hesitant to provide information. Maintaining privacy has become increasingly difficult due to features such as rules & regulations, laws, and billing procedures. These inevitably involve the sharing of information. Consequently, guaranteeing clients full proof of privacy and taking them into confidence has become a significant challenge for mental healthcare providers.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) warrants preserving and protecting privacy and gives clients easy access to their records. In the wake of dire need, the act is a bit flexible and allows healthcare providers to issue confidential information without the client’s consent. This might happen in extreme situations such as suicide in which the healthcare provider needs to think on their feet and weigh what’s more important, i.e., the client’s life or information. This will contribute towards continued care, but it can swing both ways; it may or may not benefit the client.
The onset of confidentiality parallels the beginning of the therapy. Maintaining extends even beyond their death. Not disclosing the emails, voicemails, appointments, and therapy contents to the external party all fall under the umbrella of maintaining confidentiality. Mental Health Providers license holders are bound to maintain confidentiality under the HIPAA Act, state laws, and 42 CFR. Any negligence in this regard, whether deliberate or deliberate, might result in severe consequences for the healthcare provider ranging from disciplinary actions to potential legal liability from clients.
EXCEPTIONS TO CONFIDENTIALITY RULES
Healthcare providers can breach confidentiality in some exceptional cases. Licensed Healthcare Professionals are provided with this facility because extraordinary circumstances can arise while dealing with clients. It is common in cases where clients pose threats to others or themselves. For instance, the Tarasoff v. Regents case in 1976 proved to be a landmark in the mental healthcare sector. The California Supreme Court ruled that the therapist’s duty lies in prioritizing public safety to maintaining the client’s confidentiality. The counselor needs to analyze the situation using his qualifications and experience to make sure whether maintaining or breaching confidentiality is more important. In such scenarios, it is essential to acknowledge the ethical and legal complications resulting from the decision to breach confidentiality. It is common for
many clients with mental difficulties to say that they would gladly end their lives. However, it is on the therapist to contemplate whether the intent is clear or not. If it is, the therapist would typically hospitalize them. Seeking help in suicidal thoughts alone cannot result in mandatory hospitalization.
Another prevalent situation that can lead to the intentional breaching of confidentiality on the therapist’s part is when they sense a child or handicapped abuse. If a child exhibits repetitive marks of physical abuse, that can be out of the normal bruises on their bodies. In such circumstances, the therapist would again consider their ethical and professional obligation and decide whether to disclose the information to ensure the child’s safety. In such situations, the therapist must fulfill their legal obligations and report the case to relevant authorities.
In the wake of a court order, the therapist may be compelled to release information for the legal proceedings to move in the right direction.
Confidentiality forms
Confidentiality forms are the paperwork that may be presented to the clients by the therapist before starting the treatment. These forms aim at ensuring transparency and informed consent. The forms encompass the exceptional scenarios under which confidentiality can be breached. These can include disclosure of information in the greater interest of the client. Additionally, insurance requires specific knowledge of all the parties involved. So, if a therapist decides to take up insurance, they must take the client into confidence before disclosing it, even though the information is insignificant. It should also be made a part of the confidentiality forms.
The overall goal of these forms is to ensure confidentiality while ensuring that individuals are protected against harm and that all legal protocols are observed.
Controlling Access to Patient Records: Ensuring Confidentiality and Compliance
Healthcare providers must take appropriate steps to safeguard patient confidentiality while observing federal and state regulations. Access to information must be controlled. Data can be recorded in various forms, i.e., Computer Disks, Cloud-based Computing, Software Programs, or through the old-school way of paper files. State regulations advise healthcare to employ locked file cabinets for storing paper files bearing clients’ information. Offices should be closed before leaving them.
Comes healthcare providers are in charge of their client’s information. Facility policies and state laws must be observed in the process. The National Board has provided comprehensive guidance for record control for Certified Counselors(NBCC), which is nationally recognized. Citing their code of ethics, information such as interview notes, test data, correspondence, recordings, and electronic data, falls under the umbrella of professional knowledge. These records are home to fact-based data and are deemed to be the property of the concerned
certified counselor or client to whom the data originally belongs. The information requires maximum security, and its release can occur only in case of a valid court order. The certified counselor who has collected this data will be held accountable if any of this data is breached. When it comes to electronic data, the board(NBCC) directs the counselors to find safe means for the storage of data and also take appropriate measures to destroy data when it is no longer required.
Requirements for Record Retention: Compliance and Ethical Guidelines
Healthcare providers must understand the technicalities regarding governing record retention. They need to be aware of national and state laws while doing so, in addition to the code of ethics. Protocols may differ, but the American Psychological Association directs the professional to maintain the record for at least three years after the last contact with the client. A 12-year additional period for retaining logs or summaries is also advisable. In the case of minor clients, the period for maintenance of records should be extended to three years at least. However, NBCC directs data retention for at least five years after the last meeting with the client. The criteria are similar for deceased clients.
The differences between the retention periods are strictly due to the rules and regulations of certifying boards and state legislatures. For example, data retention after the last contact with the client is seven years in Florida. Similarly, records should be maintained in cases of child abuse until the child reaches 18 years of age.
Appropriate Disclosure in Professional Relationships
Fostering trust starts with maintaining confidentiality regarding the relationship between professionals and their clients. Clients will be more open to discussion and communicate effectively if they know their privacy is valued. Employment or unrelated legal disputes cannot be used as an excuse to breach any information regarding clients. Professionals should use all their energies to uphold healthy communication with clients until disclosure is the only option.
Citing the NASW Code of Ethics, every healthcare provider is bound to protect the confidentiality of all information acquired when they are actively working professionals. Disclosure of information is only permitted when it can be justified on moral and legal grounds. Maintaining confidentiality is not appreciated when breaching. It can be fruitful in preventing severe complications. In the wake of such cases, social workers should only disclose a minimal amount of information necessary to deal with the issue.
According to the regulations in many states, disclosure of information is only due under direct orders from courts. A simple subpoena holds no value in such cases. Social workers must defend their clients’ confidentiality while breaching no legal boundaries during legal proceedings. If the social worker is ordered to disclose their client’s information by a court or any other legal body, they should request the court with due respect to withdraw the order. If it is
impossible, they can ask the honorable court to maintain the record under seal to prevent public inspection.
While group or couple counseling, social workers must agree with each individual’s right to confidentiality. Professionals should seek this agreement and establish clear boundaries within the therapeutic setting.
During professional careers, situations arrive where ethical standards do not coincide with state laws. It falls to professionals then to weigh both requirements and make a decision that satisfies both legal and moral obligations. A professional must have a comprehensive understanding of the Laws and Rules in their state. For this purpose, they can seek help from Continuing Educational Courses.
Importance of Documentation in Professional Practice
If the documentation is carried out properly, it can be fruitful for both the client and the professional in several ways. Adequate documentation can aid one in fighting legal battles, enhancing accountability, proving to be helpful in medical billing procedures, and improving the overall decision-making procedure. Conducting a risk assessment before documentation can improve ethical practices and significantly decrease legal vulnerabilities. It aids professionals in identifying risks and hatching a risk mitigation strategy to smoothen the record maintenance, content, and closure.
Enhancing Client Care and Treatment Planning
Professionals need a historical and current overview of a client’s treatment or condition to make therapeutic processes successful. Comprehensive documentation provides this valuable resource. Professionals use progress notes and records to track clients’ progress, interventions, and outcomes. Evaluation regarding the effectiveness of the process is made based on it. Professionals can also view the client’s file, helping them identify potential triggers that can serve as a recipe for relapse or decline. Consequently, professionals can make more informed decisions. Well-maintained records can also aid in fighting legal battles, as they can prove to be critical evidence.
Ensuring Compliance and Financial Stability
Professionals must adhere to special requirements by agencies or third parties regarding record keeping and observing federal and state laws. It is known that third-party payers often demand specific documentation to provide service to both the client and the professional. Advancements in the healthcare industry have made processes such as medical billing aimed at financial aspects inevitable. So efficient record keeping can increase financial stability.
Child Welfare Documentation
Documentation plays a pivotal role in child welfare services. Documentation in such cases requires involvement with families and tracking progress that supports decision making ultimately leading to case resolution. Other aspects of the child welfare documentation are explained below.
Accountability and Quality Control
Child welfare documentation is a source of accountability for case managers and the agencies involved. Documentation involves; Number of individuals served, services provided, or relevant services not delivered due to various factors. This can help make the decision-making process transparent and depict that established procedures were followed. Additionally, well-documented records portray the quality of work done and minimize the chances of personal liability for case managers and agencies.
Therapeutic Collaboration and Evaluation
Case records can act as therapeutic tools reflecting the cooperation between the case managers and families. It includes the reasons the child welfare work was conducted and the mutually defined goals and desired outcomes reducing the risk of maltreatment. Case records encompassing interventions, progress reports, and ongoing assessment facilitates the continuing evaluation of the family’s progress toward achieving the objectives and, ultimately, goals. Agencies can employ tools and instruments that require input, further enhancing a collaborative and client-centered approach.
Organizational Efficiency and Communication
Case managers need organized documentation that promotes clearer thinking and focused analysis polishing treatment planning. Case managers can improve their research through factual data that is well organized. The managers then can provide appropriate services to their clients. Statistical Analysis, Pinpoint Supervision, and interdisciplinary communication can only be made possible if the records are organized. As child welfare systems involve professionals from different fields, communication becomes essential. Well-organized record-keeping helps professionals communicate effectively.
Components of Family Case Records
To ensure comprehensive documentation that supports child safety, permanence, and well-being outcomes, family case records, whether in paper or electronic form, should contain the following information:
- Referral and Report Information:
● The nature and scope of the recommendation or report.
● Demographic information on the child, his or her family, and significant others.
● Response of the Agency to the referral. - Contact Details
● Dates and lengths of all contacts, including face-to-face and phone interviews
● Participants in the interviews (family members, secondary sources, and a multidisciplinary team)
● Contacts’ locations and purposes - Release of Information:
● Documentation of alerting the family of the agency’s policy regarding the release of information from the records. - Initial Assessment:
● Documentation of child maltreatment allegations
● Assessment of the child’s risk and safety - Diagnostic Procedures:
● Any medical, psychiatric, or substance abuse evaluations performed as part of the
examination must be documented. - Initial Decisions:
● Clear record of decisions regarding maltreatment substantiation, risk assessment, safety
evaluation, out-of-home placement, court referral, and continuation or termination of agency engagement.
Treatment and Intervention Documentation
The following information should be included in the family case records regarding treatment and intervention:
- Safety Plan and Referrals:
● Documentation of the safety strategy, if one has been produced
● Referrals to other programs, organizations, or individuals involved in the safety plan’s implementation - Family Assessment and Treatment Needs:
● The family assessment, including risks and strengths, is documented.
● Identification of the child’s, carers’, and family’s treatment and intervention requirements - Legal Involvement:
● Description of any involvement in criminal, juvenile, or family court
● Status update on the client’s pending legal actions - Case Plan and Goals:
● Detailed case plan with specific measurable goals
● Description of the process used to develop the plan - Intervention Outcomes and Activities:
● Intervention outcomes that address the impacts of abuse and improve child safety, permanence, and well-being are specified.
● Case activities and outcomes are documented, including reports from community practitioners involved in intervention or treatment. - Progress and Case Closure:
● Information on progress towards outcomes, completion of case plans, and risk reduction.
● Updates on child reunification with families or other permanent placement alternatives
● If applicable, specifics of the information supplied to the court. - Case-Closing Summary:
● Summary outlining the original reason for referral
● Description of the closure process with the family
● Outcomes and goals established with the family
● Nature of services provided and activities undertaken by practitioners and the family
● Summary of progress accomplished, unresolved issues or goals, and reasons for closing the case
Principles of Effective Record-Keeping in Child Welfare Case Management
Well in time and professional completion of case records, while maintaining confidentiality, is decisive in child welfare practice. To ensure secure paper and electronic files, the following principles should guide case managers:
- Relevance and Necessity:
● Include relevant material aimed at the agency’s goal.
● Differentiate between facts and views by giving justifiable evidence for any opinions voiced.
● Unless clearly relevant to child welfare, avoid recording details about clients’ intimate life or personal opinions. - Direct Communication and Informed Consent:
● Keep proper record of any information gleaned through direct contact with clients.
● Inform customers of the agency’s information-gathering authorities, their participation rights, and the purpose of it while striving to maintain confidentiality at all times.
● Demand a signed “ Release of Information” before sharing any type of information if permission from state child abuse is not found. - Accuracy and Maintenance:
● Records should be kept and updated to ensure correctness, relevance, timeliness, and completeness.
● Instead of removing or eliminating errors, mark them as such.
● Maintain client confidentiality throughout dictation operations by using private dictation capabilities.
● Process recordings, which are primarily meant for skill development, should be excluded from official agency records. - Consent for Videotaping or Videotaping:
● Before audiotaping or videotaping any session, obtain permission from the kid and family, telling them that refusal would not influence service provision. - Security and Access Control:
● Except in extreme situations and with prior authorization, avoid removing case records from the agency.
● Keep case records in locked files to prevent unauthorized access.
● Only give keys to people who need regular file access, and keep track of the removal and return dates.
● Implement proper electronic case record security measures, such as password protection. - Integration and Review:
● Recognise record-keeping as an essential component of professional child welfare case management, allowing you to organize your thoughts and measure outcomes.
● Supervisors should evaluate case documentation on a frequent and systematic basis.
● Case documentation evaluations reveal information about contact frequency, content, family strengths, needs, and dangers, safety plans, casework decisions, risk-reduction measures, progress towards outcomes, and changes in the child’s and family’s circumstances.
Benefits of Effective Documentation:
- Adequate documentation must involve the essential elements of information such as recording the individuals served, services provided for unavailable, and adherence to policies and procedures. It can also include other aspects of quality control. All this plays a vital role in enhancing accountability and professionalism. Comprehensive record maintenance depicts the quality of an agency and contributes to lowering the chance of
liability in case of legal concerns. Overall, documentation safeguards the interest of all the stakeholders involved. - Another critical aspect of adequate documentation is its role as a therapeutic tool. Case records showcase the shared purpose of child welfare work. If the collaborative efforts between families and professionals are documentation, they can highlight the outlined goals, desired outcomes, and progress in reducing the risk of maltreatment. Consequently, documentation is the sole representative of the whole process.
- Documentation helps organize the information that, in turn, assists the professional in in-depth analysis and making informed decisions. If factual information is not recorded in an organized manner, it can lead to mess-ups, resulting in poor service delivery. So, professionals must prioritize meticulous documentation at all times.
Important Documentation Guidelines:
a) Relevance and Necessity: While documenting, professionals should include relevant and essential information regarding the agency’s purposes. They should draw a clear boundary between facts and opinions and provide opinions only when necessary. For example, record precise observations such as signs of intoxication that might include red eyes or the smell of alcohol.
b) Respect Personal Boundaries: Recording or documenting confidential client information that is not essential for the case is deemed appropriate. Professionals are always advised to refrain from such acts. It might also encompass the religious or personal views of the clients, along with other intimate information.
c) Direct Communication: The most effective way of gaining information is through direct communication with the client. It will minimize the chances of misinterpretation and also enhance accuracy.
Substance Abuse Progress Notes:
Substance Abuse Program documentation is a critical procedure. It must take the following points into consideration.
a) Condition Overview: Conduct a thorough assessment of whether the patient is getting better, their condition is worsening further, or they are unmoved by the whole process.
b) Symptom Status: Assess the potential trigger points of the patient. Record if they are responding to the old ways or showing progress. Professionals must provide solid evidence or reasoning for their opinions in this regard.
c) Behaviors: Natural behaviors like participating in activities, sticking to rules, and medication compliance must be documented. This will help in an in depth analysis of the patient’s mindset.
d) Medication Side Effects: Medicines tend to elicit side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, and acidity in the stomach. If problems are identified, they should be recorded, and appropriate actions should be taken.
e) Special Circumstances: Address any special documentation requirements for patients with special needs. Always leave room for such needs and tailor the overall strategy citing those special needs, i.e., Medical- Legal Risks, and evaluating conditions.
f) Confidentiality and Access Control: All the documentation regarding the patient should be selectively permeable, allowing only limited and specified access. Abiding by state and federal rules and regulations is of utmost importance.
Confidentiality and Documentation: Protecting Those Seeking Help
Confidentiality is essential when it comes to substance addiction records. The laws and regulations governing the privacy of these records were put in place to address legitimate concerns about potential misuse, ensuring that people feel comfortable getting the treatment they require. Sharing information about a substance use disorder can have profound effects, including job loss, housing insecurity, custody issues, prejudice from medical providers and insurers, and even legal ramifications. Title 42 of the Code of Federal Requirements (CFR Part 2) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) are two essential requirements that must be followed to ensure confidentiality and privacy in drug misuse treatment. At their core, these approaches seek to provide individuals with peace of mind as they progress toward recovery.
Title 42 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) part 2
Per the regulations stated in the Title 42 of the CFR, Part 2 serves essential purposes, such as ensuring that the preservation of the patient records is reasonable for patients. The regulation clearly states that protecting patients is of utmost importance and underlines the potential hazards of not doing so in the shape of discouragement of patients from accessing the help they need.
As the healthcare system continues to evolve, a final rule has been established to make it compatible with the US Healthcare system. The policy changes keep the interest of patients in view while safeguarding their privacy regarding substance abuse treatment records. To further increase security, Title 42 of CFR Part 2 mentions the limited and exceptional conditions citing which patient information can be disclosed. This might take place with or without the patient’s consent. However, understanding the technical aspects of this can be challenging.
42 CFR Part 2 aims at individuals or facilities providing alcohol or drug abuse diagnosis, treatment, or referral services with federal assistance. Many substance abuse treatment programs fall under its umbrella. It needs to be noted that a for-profit organization will not receive federal aid in this regard. So a for-profit organization must comply with 42 CFR to secure State licensing or if a certification agency demands it. Federal DEA Registration is mandatory for practitioners who administer controlled substances for detoxification and must follow all the regulations.
A program is considered “federally assisted” if it meets any of the following criteria:
- It receives any form of federal funding, regardless of whether those funds are allocated explicitly for alcohol or drug abuse services.
- It operates under a license, certification, registration, or other authorization granted by the federal government. For example, if a program is licensed to provide methadone or certified as a Medicare provider, it falls under this category.
- It receives assistance from the IRS by granting tax-exempt status or allowing tax deductions for contributions.
- It is directly conducted by the federal government or a state or local government that receives federal funds, some of which may be allocated for alcohol or drug abuse programs, although not necessarily exclusively.
Being federal assisted refers to support in the form of funding, authorization, tax benefits or direct involvement by the federal government.
The Federal Drug and Alcohol Confidentiality Law – 42 CFR Part 2’s prohibition on disclosing patient-identifying information has very few exclusions. The following are the general categories of exceptions:
- written consent
- internal program communications
- removal of all patient-identifying information
- medical emergency
- court order
- crime on program premises or against program personnel
- research
- audits and evaluations
- child abuse
To abide by HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2, the most appreciable method is to take consent prior to the treatment. Consent form should include necessary details such as the program or person authorized to disclose the information, the disclosure recipient, the patient’s name, the purpose of the disclosure, the type and amount of information to be shared, the patient’s signature, and the date. If the program is yet to initiate, revocation of consent can take place. Date of Expiry of the license shall also be mentioned upon the form or any events that can lead to the revocation should be mentioned promptly. State laws that are applicable by all means shall be also mentioned.
When exchanging information with another agency, it is critical to include a notification outlining the confidentiality regulations outlined in 42 CFR Part 2, emphasizing that further disclosure is banned unless explicitly permitted. It’s vital to emphasize that more than a broad authorization for the distribution of medical information is needed in this case because these laws are in place to safeguard customers and patients from potential harm.
When addressing the sharing of medical records, privacy must be prioritized. Improper disclosure of health information might have serious ramifications. Individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorders may face terrible consequences if their sensitive information is improperly disclosed, such as job loss and strained relationships. The stigma associated with substance use disorders often causes people to hide their problems and put off getting help. We can make a difference and encourage more people to seek treatment by ensuring adequate recordkeeping and maintaining these records.
FAQS
- Case Scenario: A therapist is treating a client who expresses suicidal thoughts but does not provide clear intent or plan. How should the therapist handle this situation?
Answer: The therapist should carefully assess the client’s statements and determine the clarity of intent. If the intent is unclear or the client’s safety is not immediately at risk, the therapist should continue providing support, reassurance, and exploration of coping strategies. However, if the intent is clear or the client’s safety is in imminent danger, the therapist should take immediate action by hospitalizing the client to ensure their safety. - Case Scenario: A therapist suspects that a child under their care is experiencing physical abuse but has no concrete evidence. What steps should the therapist take?
Answer: The therapist has an ethical and legal obligation to protect the child’s safety. They should document their suspicions, gather as much information as possible, and consult with appropriate professionals or authorities, such as child protective services, to report their concerns and provide any available evidence. This is necessary to ensure the well-being of the child. - Case Scenario: A therapist receives a court order requesting the release of a client’s confidential information for legal proceedings. What should the therapist do?
Answer: The therapist should carefully review the court order to ensure its validity and scope. If the court order is valid and legally binding, the therapist must comply with it by providing the requested information. However, if the court order seems invalid or overly broad, the therapist
should consult with legal professionals to ensure the client’s rights and confidentiality are protected. - Case Scenario: A therapist accidentally discovers that their client is involved in illegal activities unrelated to therapy. Should the therapist breach confidentiality and report the client’s actions?
Answer: In this situation, the therapist should consult with legal professionals and ethical guidelines to determine the appropriate course of action. If there is a clear and imminent threat to the safety of others or the therapist, they may have a duty to breach confidentiality and report the client’s illegal activities. However, the therapist should exercise caution and consider the potential impact on the therapeutic relationship and the client’s trust.
- Case Scenario: A therapist is treating a client who is a minor and requests confidentiality about a sensitive issue. Should the therapist honor the minor’s request for confidentiality?
Answer: While therapists generally respect the confidentiality of their minor clients, they must assess the situation’s gravity and potential harm to the client. If the issue involves potential harm to the minor or others, such as abuse or self-harm, the therapist should involve appropriate authorities and breach confidentiality to ensure the minor’s safety. The therapist must balance the minor’s autonomy with their duty to protect their well-being. - Question: What are the principles that should guide case managers in effective record-keeping in child welfare case management?
Answer: The principles that should guide case managers in effective record-keeping include relevance and necessity, direct communication and informed consent, accuracy and maintenance, consent for videotaping or videotaping, security and access control, and integration and review. - Question: How does effective documentation benefit child welfare agencies?
Answer: Effective documentation enhances accountability and professionalism, contributes to lowering the chance of liability in legal concerns, depicts the quality of an agency, and safeguards the interests of all stakeholders involved. - Case-based Question (Ethical Dilemma): A case manager is unsure whether to record personal opinions about a client’s intimate life in the case file. What principle should guide their decision-making?
Answer: The principle of relevance and necessity should guide the case manager’s decision-making. Personal opinions about a client’s intimate life should be avoided unless clearly relevant to child welfare. - Case-based Question (Ethical Dilemma): A case manager discovers sensitive information during direct communication with a client. How should they handle the information in terms of documentation?
Answer: The case manager should keep proper records of any information gleaned through direct contact with clients while maintaining confidentiality at all times. They should inform customers of the agency’s information-gathering authorities and their participation rights. - Case-based Question (Ethical Dilemma): A case manager wants to audiotape a session with a child and their family. What should they do to ensure ethical practice?
Answer: The case manager should obtain permission from the child and family before videotaping or videotaping any session. They should explain that refusal to be recorded will not influence service provision. - Question: What should be considered when documenting substance abuse progress notes?
Answer: Substance abuse progress notes should consider the condition overview, symptom status, behaviors, medication side effects, special circumstances, and adherence to confidentiality and access control. - Question: What regulations ensure the confidentiality and privacy of substance addiction records?
Answer: Title 42 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 2 and the Health Insurance
Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) ensure the confidentiality and privacy of
substance addiction records. - Case-based Question (Ethical Dilemma): A case manager faces a situation where they need to disclose patient information without their consent. Under what conditions can patient information be disclosed?
Answer: Patient information can be disclosed with or without consent under limited and exceptional conditions specified in Title 42 of CFR Part 2, while abiding by state and federal rules and regulations. - Question: What is the purpose of Title 42 of the CFR Part 2?
Answer: Title 42 of CFR Part 2 serves the purpose of protecting patients’ privacy regarding substance abuse treatment records and ensuring that patients feel comfortable accessing the help they need.
