Discussion

In December 2000 the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued the standard for privacy of individual identifiable health information final rule Privacy Rule) pursuant to Administrative Simplification provision of Health Insurance. Portability and Accountability ACT of 1996(HIPPA) 45 CFR part 160 and 164 subpart A and E. Substance abuse treatment programs that are subject to HIPPA must comply with Privacy Rule. Substance abuse treatment programs that already are complying with Part2 should not have a difficult time complying with Privacy Rule as it parallels the requirement of Part2 in many areas. In the event a program identifies a conflict between the rules it should notify the substance abuse and Mental Health Services Administration immediately for assistance in resolving the conflict. The Privacy Rule applies to the covered entities which are health plans health care clearinghouse and health care providers who transmit health information in electronic form in connection with transaction for which HHS has adopted a HIPPA standard in 45 CFR, Part162&45CFR&160.103.

Part 2 protect any and all information that could reasonable used to identify an individual and requires that disclosure limited to information necessary to carry out the purpose of disclosure under the Privacy Rule a program may not be use to disclose" protected health information excepted as permitted or require by rule 45 CFR& 164.514. The Privacy Rule permit program to assign a code or other means of record identification that has been identify and re identify provide 45 CFR. Part 2 protect all information about person who has applied for or been given diagnosis or treatment for alcohol or drugs at a federally assisted program.