In Tennessee, what we discuss in session is considered a privileged communication afforded the same status as an attorney-client communication. However, there are limits to the privilege of confidentiality. These situations include:
- suspected child, elderly person or disabled person abuse or neglect
- if you become a clear and imminent danger to yourself
- if you report that you intend to physically injure someone
- when otherwise required by law or court order
With these exceptions, unless you specifically sign a release of information authorizing us to talk to someone, all privileged communications here are kept private, and confidential. The UWC Notice of Practices to Protect the Privacy of Your Health Information provides more details about confidentiality and its limitations.
Information obtained by a psychologist, social worker, counselor, nurse, nurse practitioner, physician, or another member of your health care team will be documented in your electronic medical record and used to determine the course of treatment most appropriate. Information is shared within the UWC on a strict “need to know” basis. The UWC staff works as an integrated team to provide the highest quality medical and behavioral healthcare. Information is documented in an electronic record; however, your psychotherapy records are recorded in an electronic record that is separate and distinct from your medical record. If it is deemed necessary by your therapist that a medical team member have access to your behavioral health records in order to coordinate care, this will be discussed with you first.