Confidentiality and Information Protection Policy
The purpose of this policy is to establish safeguards to protect the confidentiality and privacy of information concerning clients (individuals diagnosed with autism) served by the agency. This policy applies to all employees, contractors, volunteers, and affiliated individuals who have access to information concerning clients served at Blue Lakes.
Confidentiality Obligations
All information concerning clients, including personal, medical, and behavioral data, is considered confidential and privileged.
Employees must maintain the confidentiality of consumer information both during and after their employment with the agency.
Confidential information may only be accessed, used, or disclosed on a need-to-know basis and for authorized purposes related to the provision of applied behavior analytic services.
Authorized Access
Access to consumer information is restricted to authorized personnel who require such information to perform their job duties effectively.
Authorized personnel include licensed clinicians, behavior analysts, therapists, administrative staff, and other individuals directly involved in the provision of services to clients.
Use of Consumer Information
Consumer information may only be used for purposes directly related to the assessment, treatment, and monitoring of the consumer's progress and well-being.
Information may be used for treatment planning, data collection, progress monitoring, communication with caregivers, and reporting to regulatory agencies as required by law.
Compliance Monitoring
The compliance officer is responsible for monitoring compliance with this policy and conducting periodic audits to assess adherence to confidentiality requirements.
Any identified deficiencies or areas of non-compliance will be addressed through corrective actions and additional training as necessary.
Disclosure of Consumer Information
Consumer information may only be disclosed to individuals or entities authorized by the consumer or their legal guardian, or as required by law.
Prior written consent must be obtained from the consumer or their legal guardian before disclosing any information to third parties, except in cases of emergency or as required by law.
SMS opt-in or phone numbers for the purpose of SMS are not being shared with any third party nor affiliate company for marketing purposes.
Security Measures
The agency implements physical, technical, and administrative safeguards to protect consumer information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction.
Electronic records containing consumer information are encrypted and password-protected, and access is restricted to authorized personnel only.
Training and Awareness
All employees receive training on confidentiality requirements and their obligations to protect consumer information.
Regular reminders and updates on confidentiality policies and procedures are provided to ensure ongoing compliance and awareness.
Reporting Violations
Employees must report any suspected violations of confidentiality or unauthorized access to consumer information to their supervisor or the compliance officer immediately.
Reports of violations will be investigated promptly, and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against individuals found to have violated confidentiality policies.
Enforcement and Accountability
Non-compliance with this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract termination.
Managers and supervisors are responsible for enforcing confidentiality requirements within their respective departments and holding employees accountable for adherence to this policy.
SMS Terms and Conditions
Families of Blue Lakes Behavioral Health and affiliate providers may opt in to receiving text messages. Families also reserve the right to opt out by texting STOP. If families opt in to text messaging that information will not be shared with any third parties.
Families can expect to receive text messages regarding appointment changes, inclement weather updates, appointment reminders, confirmation of appointments, and when invoices are ready to be viewed.
We get consent verbally by asking do you agree to receive conversational text messages. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. For assistance, text HELP or visit our website at bluelakesaba.com. To opt out at any time text STOP.