In most situations, psychologists can't release psycho-therapy notes unless the patient signs a detailed authorization form specifically authorizing their release. State practice laws regarding note-keeping requirements should also be considered, she says.
Sometimes therapists may record sessions so that they can watch their work and reflect on it. This allows them to review their work and gain deeper insights into the issues discussed and the progress made in therapy.
Yes, a therapist can share session notes with another therapist, but this typically requires the client's consent due to confidentiality and privacy regulations, such as HIPAA in the United States. Sharing notes can be beneficial for coordinated care, especially if a client is seeing multiple providers.
Yes, you can ask your therapist anything you want as long as it's reasonable and not inappropriate. Good luck getting the therapist to actually answer questions such as: Most likely the therapist will answer such a question with a question. For example, they might say: Why would you ask the therapist such a question?
The law in the State of California mandates that information may be appropriately shared when the following conditions exist: If you present an imminent threat of harm to yourself or others. When there is an indication of abuse of a child, dependent adult or elderly adult. If you become gravely disabled.
It is vital to know that clients have the legal right to access their medical records, which include psychotherapy notes. However, if you believe releasing private or sensitive information may cause harm, you can deny the request. In such a case, you must provide a written explanation for the denial.
Contact Us Hours of Operation. Monday – Friday am – 5 pm. Telephone. Mailing Address. WakeMed Health & Hospitals. Attn: HIM Department. Fax Numbers. Requests for Copies of Records: 919-350-1720. Patient Care (Providers and Healthcare Facilities): 919-350-7985. Email. Requests for Copies of Records: HIMROI@wakemed.
If your provider has a form, and you want to fix a simple mistake, fill out the form and attach a copy of the health record page where you found the mistake. If your provider doesn't have a form or if the mistake is complex, you may want to write a letter describing the correction.
The best way to obtain specific information about a patient when taking their medical history is to ask direct questions that can be answered briefly.
How you make your request will depend on your provider's processes. You may be able to request your record through your provider's patient portal. You may have to fill out a form — called a health or medical record release form, or request for access—send an email, or mail or fax a letter to your provider.