NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES
In Washington State, Protected Health Information (PHI) refers to any data that identifies patients and relates to their health condition(s) and care. This includes information about past, present, or future physical or mental health and the services received.
PHI is confidential and can only be used or disclosed in specific situations, such as for treatment, payment, or legal requirements, and with your consent when necessary. This notice describes how PHI might be used or shared and how to access it. We are dedicated to maintaining your confidentiality and adhering to privacy laws. We will inform you of any changes and follow the Notice's terms.
Contact Us
Mailing Address:
Sound Choice Mental Health
PO Box 3103, Lacey, WA 98509
Questions or Complaints
If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may contact:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
200 Independence Avenue SW
Washington, DC 20201
Phone: (202) 619-0257
Changes to This Notice
SCMH may update this notice at any time. Revised versions will be posted on our website and available upon request.
Our Responsibilities
Sound Choice Mental Health (SCMH) is required to:
Keep your PHI private.
Provide this notice outlining our privacy practices.
Notify you of any breach of your PHI.
Not use genetic information for insurance underwriting.
Follow the terms of this notice.
How We May Use or Share Your PHI
Treatment: To coordinate care with other providers (e.g., physicians, therapists, labs), including through secure electronic health information exchange networks as permitted by law.
Payment: To bill insurance or obtain prior authorization.
Operations: For scheduling, quality improvement, and administrative services.
Research: With appropriate safeguards and approvals.
Mandatory Reporting: For suspected abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult.
Serious Threats: To prevent harm to you or others.
Legal Requirements: In response to valid subpoenas, court orders, or laws.
Health Oversight: For audits, inspections, or licensure reviews.
Worker's Compensation: As required by the Department of Labor and Industries.
Electronic Health Information Exchange:
Sound Choice Mental Health participates in secure electronic health information exchange networks to support coordination of your care, as permitted by law.
Other: To coroners or funeral directors as needed.
Your Rights
You have the right to:
Request restrictions on how your PHI is used or shared.
Request confidential communications (e.g., at a specific address or phone number).
Access and copy your PHI, with some exceptions (e.g., psychotherapy notes).
Request amendments to your records.
Receive an accounting of non-routine disclosures.File a complaint if you believe your privacy rights have been violated.
Requests must be made in writing. Forms are available from SCMH.
Adolescent’s Privacy
In Washington State, minors aged 13 and older generally have the right to keep their mental health information confidential. SCMH will not share treatment or appointment information with parents or guardians without the adolescent's authorization, except as permitted or required by law.