New Jersey Psychologist Suspended for Failing to Protect Patient Privacy
When someone seeks help from a psychologist, a counselor, a psychiatrist, or a therapist of any kind, they expect that their sessions will be held in the strictest of confidence. When a patient seeks counseling, they want to feel they are in a safe place where their privacy will be protected. Although there are some exceptions that allow a psychologist to share information – such as to prevent a suicide or to prevent a crime – there are laws that govern confidentiality.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) includes a privacy rule that creates national standards to protect a person’s medical records and personal health information. That includes information gleaned from psychotherapy and mental health counseling sessions.
A prominent New Jersey psychologist who failed to protect his patients’ privacy is now facing a two-year suspension of his license. The disciplinary action arose out of lawsuits in which to doctor sued some of his patients over unpaid bills. However, he did not keep details of the patients’ mental health diagnoses and treatment confidential. As a penalty, the psychologist will lose the right to practice for the first year of suspension and will only be able to practice with supervision in the second year. Additionally, he will have to share investigative costs, pay a fine and a $10,000 civil penalty, and take an ethics course.
If you have been injured, emotionally or physically, by a healthcare provider, please call the New Jersey medical malpractice lawyers at Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP at 732-777-0100. You can also contact us online. We will provide the knowledgeable guidance you need to recover the compensation you deserve. Our offices are conveniently located in in Edison, Red Bank, and Toms River, and we represent clients throughout the state of New Jersey.
Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP has purposely remained small in size, because it is important to us that we get to know our clients and their needs. Larger NJ injury firms may churn out case after case, but that’s not how we operate. Partners Barry Eichen, William Crutchlow, and Daryl Zaslow have created a firm with the resources to handle complex litigation, and a team that takes your case personally.
Find out more about Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP