HIPAA Policies
Protecting Your Privacy and Personal Health Information
HIPAA Compliance
Protecting Your Privacy and Personal Health Information
At Catholic Charities North Dakota, your privacy matters. We are committed to protecting your personal health information in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, commonly known as HIPAA.
As we provide services to individuals and families across North Dakota, we take every step necessary to ensure your information is handled with care, confidentiality, and respect.
Our Commitment to Confidentiality
Many of our programs involve sensitive personal and health information. These services include:
- Adoption services
- Pregnancy and parenting support
- Post adoption search and disclosure
- Counseling services
- Guardianship services
- Services for vulnerable adults
We understand that seeking assistance often requires sharing private information. Catholic Charities North Dakota maintains strict policies and procedures to safeguard your records and limit access only to authorized personnel who need the information to provide services.
How We Protect Your Information
We protect your personal health information by:
- Maintaining secure electronic and physical records
- Limiting access to confidential information to trained staff
- Using secure systems for documentation and communication
- Requiring staff to follow confidentiality and privacy standards
- Providing ongoing training on HIPAA compliance and data protection
We do not share your protected health information without your written authorization, except as permitted or required by law.
Rights to Your Health Information
Under federal law, you have specific rights regarding your personal health information. These rights include:
- The right to access and request copies of your records
- The right to request corrections to your information
- The right to request restrictions on certain disclosures
- The right to request confidential communications
- The right to receive a copy of our Notice of Privacy Practices
If you would like more information about your rights or wish to make a request regarding your records, please contact our office.
Questions or Concerns
If you have questions about our HIPAA policies, privacy practices, or how your information is protected, we encourage you to reach out to Catholic Charities North Dakota. We are committed to transparency and to maintaining your trust while providing compassionate, professional care.
Your privacy is not only a legal obligation, it is part of our mission to treat every person with dignity and respect.