8. Does HIPAA permit the release of information if a patient may be a danger to self or others?

Yes. HHS has issued a letter to health care providers to ensure that they are aware of their ability under HIPAA to take action, consistent with their ethical standards or other legal obligations, to disclose necessary information about a patient to law enforcement, family members of the patient, or other persons when they believe the patient presents a serious danger to self or others.

For more information, see: http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/office/lettertonationhcp.pdf

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