Ridge Way Mental Health Services
Privacy Policy

Last Modified: December 2024

Introduction

At Ridge Way Mental Health Services, your privacy is a top priority. We are committed to safeguarding your health information and ensuring transparency in how it is used and shared. This notice explains how your health information may be utilized, your rights regarding your personal health data, and our legal obligations under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other applicable laws.

If you have any questions or concerns about this notice, please contact our Privacy Office at the information provided below.

Our Commitment to Your Privacy

Your health information is personal, and we take its protection seriously. Ridge Way Mental Health Services adheres to strict standards to ensure that your information is handled responsibly while providing you with high-quality mental health care. Our practices comply with HIPAA and other federal and state laws designed to safeguard your privacy.

How We Use and Share Your Information

We use and disclose your protected health information (PHI) only as permitted by law and to provide you with the best possible care. Examples of how we may use your information include:

  • For Treatment: To coordinate and manage your care, including sharing information with other healthcare providers involved in your treatment. For example, your therapist may share relevant details with a psychiatrist to ensure your treatment is aligned.
  • For Payment: To process insurance claims or receive payment for services rendered. This includes providing your health plan with necessary information about your treatment.
  • For Healthcare Operations: To improve our services, train staff, and ensure compliance with healthcare regulations.
  • As Required by Law: To comply with legal requirements, such as reporting communicable diseases to public health authorities or cooperating with law enforcement when required.
  • To Family or Caregivers: With your consent, we may share relevant health information with family members or others involved in your care.

Psychotherapy Notes

Psychotherapy notes, which document private counseling sessions, are treated with enhanced confidentiality. These notes are kept separate from your medical record and require specific authorization for use or disclosure, except in limited situations permitted by law, such as to defend against legal claims or as required by a court order.

Substance Use Disorder Records

Ridge Way Mental Health Services offers substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, and these records are protected under stricter federal laws. SUD records cannot be disclosed without your explicit written consent, except in emergencies or other legally authorized situations.

Your Rights Regarding Your Health Information

You have the following rights under HIPAA:

  • Access Your Records: You can view or request copies of your medical records, including receiving electronic copies when available.
  • Request Amendments: If you believe your records are inaccurate or incomplete, you can request corrections.
  • Restrict Use and Sharing: You may request limits on how your information is used or shared, although we may not always be able to accommodate these requests.
  • Confidential Communications: You can ask us to communicate with you in a specific way, such as sending information to a different address or contacting you only by phone.
  • Accounting of Disclosures: You may request a list of instances where your health information has been shared for purposes other than treatment, payment, or healthcare operations.
  • Paper Copy of Privacy Notice: You can request a paper copy of this privacy policy at any time.

Health Information Exchange (HIE)

We participate in a secure Health Information Exchange (HIE) to enhance coordination of care. By default, your health information may be shared with other healthcare providers through this system. You may opt out of the HIE at any time by contacting us.

Marketing and Your Information

With your consent, Ridge Way Mental Health Services may use your health information to provide you with educational resources, newsletters, or information about services that may benefit you. These communications are intended to keep you informed about treatment options, new services, or programs that align with your health needs.

We will not sell your health information to third parties or share it for marketing purposes without your explicit authorization. If you prefer not to receive marketing materials, you can opt out at any time by contacting our Privacy Office.

Special Protections for Sensitive Information

Certain health information, such as mental health records, substance use treatment details, and HIV-related information, is subject to additional protections under state and federal law. This information will only be disclosed with your specific consent or as required by law.

Security of Your Health Information

We employ robust safeguards to protect your health information, including:

  • Administrative Protections: Staff training and strict access controls.
  • Technical Safeguards: Encrypted storage and secure electronic communications.
  • Physical Safeguards: Secure facilities and restricted access to records.

Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this privacy policy as necessary to reflect changes in our practices or applicable laws. The most current version will be available on our website and at our office locations.

Contact Us

If you have questions about this notice, wish to exercise your rights, or have concerns about how your information is handled, please contact us:

  • Phone: (404) 404-4660
  • Email: support@ridgewaymentalhealth.com
  • Address: 1400 Buford Highway NE, Suite K2

If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may file a complaint with our Privacy Office or with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. There will be no retaliation for filing a complaint.

In Case of Emergency

If you are experiencing a life-threatening or mental health emergency, call 911 or contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.