Post-Roe Medical Record Confidentiality

Following the recent reversal of Roe vs. Wade, the American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association, and National Association of Social Worker’s released a joint statement condemning the decision.

Framework therapists will continue to provide an open and nonjudgmental space for clients to discuss their personal healthcare, including abortion. Additionally, we realize that the current political atmosphere may be eliciting feelings of anxiety and depression, and encourage you to practice self-care and to share these reactions with your therapist.

Finally, we would like to remind all clients that the confidentiality of your mental health records is legally protected (with only a few exceptions, as outlined below in our confidentiality policy). Additionally, Governor Newsom recently signed an order that prevents any information, including medical records and patient data, from being shared by state agencies or departments in response to inquiries or investigations brought by other states or individuals within those states looking to restrict access.

Confidentiality Policy:

Secrecy and confidentiality are the fundamental cornerstones of productive treatment. We take these tenants very seriously and place a high value on their importance. For therapy to be effective, you’ll need to be able to trust your provider. For these reasons, everything communicated between you and your provider is legally and ethically protected and will remain confidential. Your records will be kept secure using HIPAA-compliant software. There may be rare exceptions when your provider is legally and ethically required to make limited disclosure, including: (a) knowledge or reasonable suspicion of risk for ongoing abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or legally dependent adult, (b) knowledge or reasonable suspicion of risk for imminent bodily danger to yourself or another person in order to ensure safety, (c) when ordered by a judge, (d) for the payment or reimbursement of services by a third party (i.e. health insurance) or collection of fees by a collections agency, or (e) when it is necessary for your provider to seek consultation about the best course for your treatment from other healthcare professionals. In the rare case one of these limits to confidentiality should arise, your provider will let you know so that you feel aware and in control of your confidential information.