Posted by Susan J on September 3, 2003, at 13:00:40
In reply to Insurance and privacy, posted by Dinah on August 30, 2003, at 17:11:40
Hi,
I think HIPAA's new privacy laws, which went into effect this year, keep all of your medical records private, including their electronic transmission for claims data. Yes, your insurance company will know you are receiving mental health treatment, but I think now you need to sign a waiver releasing any records to anyone.
I can look it up for certain when I get back to work next Monday.
I work for a government agency, and used to work in the HR department with health claims data. All my old coworkers, if they wanted, could look me up and see I'm receiving mental health treatment. Not a big thrill for me, thinking they are laughing and snickering at me, but the good of the therapy outweighs the bad of the lack of privacy...
Good luck with all,
Susan
poster:Susan J
thread:255717
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20030829/msgs/256644.html