All Vet Center clients have
a right to privacy that is protected by both Federal and
State laws.
These laws state that clinical information, including medical
records, must be kept confidential unless the client gives
written consent to the contrary. However, this confidentiality
is not absolute. Information may be released without a client’s
consent in the following situations:
• When the client, client’s family, or other
people’s safety is in immediate danger.
• When the court subpoena client records.
• When information is given regarding the abuse
of children or elders.
• When VA employees or government auditors have
a need to know, including determining VA benefits.
The Vet Center staff respects the privacy of all veterans,
and holds in strictest confidence all information disclosed
in the counseling process. No information will be communicated
to any person or agency without consent from the veteran,
except as indicated in the circumstances outlined above. |
