EAP STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING AND AGREEMENT ON CONFIDENTIALITY AND CONSENT TO ELECTRONIC BASED SERVICES:Information you provide to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Coordinator during a counseling session is confidential. EAP will not disclose the information without your written consent except as set forth below:
- EAP may disclose confidential information if it concerns abuse or neglect of a child, dependent adult, or disabled person.
- EAP may disclose confidential information if it concerns the infliction of bodily harm or the intent to inflict bodily harm on a person.
- EAP may disclose confidential information if served with a subpoena compelling disclosure.
- EAP may disclose confidential information if disclosure is reasonably necessary for YOUR Employer, its departments, divisions, agencies, and employees to defend against any charges or claims by the employee, related to the employee’s EAP counseling session(s).
- EAP may disclose confidential information if EAP determines that disclosure is reasonably necessary to prevent a direct threat to the health or safety of yourself or others during the performance of your job.
- If your department has directed you to meet with an EAP Coordinator for any reason, including the department’s concern about your use of alcohol and drugs, EAP may disclose:
- whether you have kept mandatory appointments;
- whether you are compliant with EAP recommendations and other treatment recommendations;
- whether EAP recommends your return to duty; and
- whether there are any known restrictions in the performance of your job.
All communication with Northstar EAP, including telephone, email, messaging, text and webcam platforms are considered private and confidential. Northstar follows all HIPPA regulations in order to safeguard your Protected Health Information (PHI). PHI will never be forwarded to a third party without your written request and agreement. The use of technology to assist in counseling makes it possible for clients to access expert care anytime, anywhere. However, clients must be aware of the risks. Please take steps to safeguard the information on your device; understand that it may be breached by those that have access to your device or passwords, and protect your privacy during therapist-client interactions.
EAP will not disclose other confidential information unless it falls within exceptions 1 - 6 above or you give your written permission to EAP to disclose it. If you believe that you have a medical condition that requires a reasonable accommodation, or if you wish to report discrimination or retaliation in the workplace, EAP will not disclose these facts unless you give EAP written permission to do so.
Northstar EAP holds all client records from Northstar EAP Sessions. EAP Providers submit notes and cannot provide information to a client. Northstar EAP must be point of contact for all matters concerning EAP sessions and release of records and information pertaining to EAP sessions.
NorthStar EAP is the official record holder for all client information and session records. This designation emphasizes our commitment to maintaining the confidentiality, security, and integrity of your personal information and session data in accordance with HIPAA. Any requests for access to or copies of your records should be directed to NorthStar EAP.
Cancellation Policy: By signing below, the client agrees to adhere to our cancellation policy by contacting us at least 24 hours in advance to reschedule or cancel their appointment. If a client fails to do so, the scheduled session will count toward clients' total allowable sessions assigned for the calendar year.
By accepting below I acknowledge that I have read and understand the above statement and that I agree to proceed pursuant to the terms set forth above.