Substance Use Disorder and Patient Confidentiality, Disclosure Rule Updated

A PPM Brief 

Those handling audits and evaluations involving Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP will have increased disclosure capabilities as well. Finally, changes to the rule aim to assist users of electronic health records by making abbreviated notice of prohibition on re-disclosure more easily accommodated.

“This final rule underscores our commitment to ensuring persons with substance use disorders receive integrated and coordinated care,” said Dr. Elinore F. McCance-Katz, the US Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, in a SAMHSA press release. “This rule will permit healthcare providers, with patients’ consent, to more easily conduct such activities as quality improvement, claims management, patient safety, training, and program integrity efforts.”

The rule is based on a period of public comments and aimed at aligning with new health privacy rules, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.