1. Compliance with Indian Mental Healthcare Act:

– We strictly adhere to the Indian Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, which emphasizes the importance of safeguarding client privacy and confidentiality.

2. Protected Health Information (PHI):

– Your personal health information, including psychiatric evaluations, therapy notes, and treatment plans, is considered Protected Health Information (PHI).

3. Informed Consent:

– We obtain your informed written consent before starting any treatment, including disclosure of your PHI, except in cases where the law mandates disclosure (e.g., risk to self or others).

4. Secured Electronic Records:

– Your electronic records are stored on secure servers with robust encryption, ensuring that unauthorized access is prevented.

5. Secure Communication:

– All electronic communication, such as emails and telehealth sessions, is conducted over secure and encrypted platforms.

6. Access Control:

– Access to your PHI is restricted to authorized mental health professionals and administrative staff directly involved in your care.

7. Record Retention and Destruction:

– We retain your records for a specified period as required by Indian law, after which they are securely archived or destroyed.

8.Release of Information (ROI):

– To share your information with a third party, we will require your explicit written consent through a Release of Information form.

9. Crisis and Emergency Procedures:

– In emergency situations, we may need to disclose relevant information to ensure your safety. However, this is done with the utmost care and within legal boundaries.

10. Confidentiality for Minors:

– For clients under 18, we may share information with parents or guardians as allowed by Indian law, while respecting the minor’s privacy when appropriate.

11. Rights and Responsibilities:

– You have the right to access your records and request corrections or amendments if inaccuracies are identified.

12. Notification of Privacy Practices (NPP):

 – We provide you with a detailed Notice of Privacy Practices (NPP) explaining your rights and our policies regarding your PHI.

13. Cultural Sensitivity:

– We recognize and respect the cultural diversity of our clients and ensure that our services are delivered with cultural sensitivity.

14. Mandatory Reporting:

 – We adhere to mandatory reporting requirements outlined by Indian law when necessary to protect your safety or the safety of others.

15. Data Security Audits:

– We regularly conduct data security audits and assessments to ensure the ongoing protection of your information.

15. Continuing Education:

– Our staff undergo continuous training to stay up-to-date with the latest privacy and security practices.