Subject: New CoE-PHI Resource Available: Navigating Confidentiality in First Responder Deflection

New Resource Available:

Navigating Confidentiality in

First Responder Deflection

First responders, such as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), law enforcement and fire department personnel, often gain access to sensitive information about individuals' substance use disorders (SUDs) and treatment. Protecting the privacy of individuals’ health information is key to treatment and recovery.


This resource explains the limited circumstances under which two federal privacy laws (HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2) apply to SUD information obtained by first responders. It also describes how these laws permit first responders to share protected health information.

For More Information:

Resources 

For additional resources related to the federal privacy laws, visit the Center of Excellence for Protected Health Information’s resource library at coephi.org. 

Request Technical Assistance 

Request brief, individualized technical assistance from our expert staff on our website.


Join our mailing list for updates, including news about the publication of new resources and training opportunities.

This resource was supported by SAMHSA of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award with 100% funded by SAMHSA/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by SAMHSA/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

 

Funded by SAMHSA, the CoE-PHI develops and disseminates resources, training, and TA for states, healthcare providers, school administrators and individuals and families to improve understanding and application of federal privacy laws and regulations, including FERPA, HIPAA, and 42 CFR Part 2, when providing and receiving treatment for SUD and mental illness.

 

Resources, training, technical assistance, and any other information provided through the CoE-PHI do not constitute legal advice.