Yes. A rehab can share records with another treatment program when the disclosure is permitted under HIPAA and, when applicable, 42 CFR Part 2. In substance use disorder treatment, the program may need your written consent or another lawful basis before sending identifying treatment records to the next provider.
Why would records be shared with another program?
Records can support continuity when a person transfers between detox, residential treatment, PHP, IOP, or another provider. The receiving team may need information about diagnoses, medications, recent assessments, treatment progress, risks, and discharge recommendations so care can continue safely.
Does HIPAA allow provider-to-provider sharing?
HIPAA generally permits covered health care providers to share protected health information for treatment purposes without a separate HIPAA authorization. However, substance use disorder records may also be protected by 42 CFR Part 2, which can impose additional consent requirements.
How did the 2024 Part 2 rule change treatment disclosures?
HHS updated Part 2 to allow a single patient consent for future uses and disclosures for treatment, payment, and health care operations in certain circumstances. Once a HIPAA-covered entity receives Part 2 records under that qualifying consent, it may make later uses and disclosures as HIPAA permits, except for special restrictions on legal proceedings against the patient.
Do I have to authorize my entire chart?
Not necessarily. A disclosure can be limited to the information reasonably needed for the purpose. A transfer may involve a discharge summary, medication list, recent assessment, or other specific records rather than every document in the chart.
Can I ask the rehab to send records to a specific program?
Yes. HIPAA gives patients a right to direct copies of protected health information to another person or entity when the access requirements are met. A release of information form may also be used for provider coordination.
What if I do not consent?
The program should explain what information it believes is needed and why. Refusing consent can limit the information available to the next treatment team, but Part 2 includes specific exceptions and HIPAA has separate permitted disclosures. The exact answer depends on the circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
Can detox send records to residential rehab?
Yes, when privacy requirements are satisfied. That can help the residential team understand withdrawal treatment, medications, medical concerns, and next-step recommendations.
Can one rehab send my records to another without telling me?
HIPAA may allow treatment disclosures, but Part 2 can require consent for qualifying SUD records. Ask the privacy office which rule applies.
Can I request only my discharge summary be sent?
Often, yes. You can discuss whether a limited set of records is sufficient for the transfer.
Does Trinity automatically share records with another program?
Current Trinity-specific transfer and authorization procedures should be confirmed directly rather than assumed.
Authoritative sources
- HHS: Confidentiality of SUD Patient Records
- HHS: 42 CFR Part 2 Final Rule
- HHS: Directing Health Information to a Third Party
This article provides general privacy information, not legal advice. Treatment-program transfer procedures and the specific records needed should be confirmed for the individual case.