Final Rule: Confidentiality Of Substance Use Disorder Patient Records

This supplemental final rule was published on January 3, 2018, by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA). The rule goes into effect February 2, 2018. The provisions align regulations governing the Confidentiality of Substance Use Disorder Patient Records. This final rule addresses the prohibition on redisclosure notice by including an option for an abbreviated notice. This final rule also addresses the circumstances under which lawful holders and their legal representatives, contractors, and subcontractors may use and disclose patient identifying information for purposes of payment, health care operations, and audits and evaluations . . .