Counseling Services

We value your privacy. What you reveal in counseling during your sessions with your counselor at Wingate University stays confidential. But there are a few, crucial exceptions. Information you share will not be released without your permission, except:

• In your counselor’s opinion, you present direct and foreseeable harm to yourself or others.
• We are ordered by a court of law to release information.
• You disclose actual or possible child abuse/neglect or elder abuse/neglect.

Further exceptions may apply if:

• You are 17 years old or younger.

Do you know what the HIPAA Privacy Rule means to you?

Here’s what you should know. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) governs the confidentiality of your medical information. Your health records belong to you and are private, but we are legally required to share information in certain situations. At Wingate University, we respect your confidentiality, and we want you to understand how HIPAA works.

Medical Records Track Your Treatment

Every time you visit the Wingate University Health Center or Office of Counseling Services, we make a record. We note why you came in, exam and lab results, diagnoses, treatment and, when appropriate, follow-up plans. These records help us make informed decisions about your treatment.

Who Can Access Your Records?

• We do not use or disclose your health information without written consent except in specific cases. We are legally required to provide information to public health authorities under certain circumstances. We must also share your records with law enforcement if ordered by a court or a subpoena. If we believe you or someone else is in immediate danger, we are obligated to report it.
• Your insurance company may request confirmation of services before they agree to pay. We also share your medical records with other professionals involved in your care when it is necessary for your specific healthcare needs.
• Under the HIPAA privacy rule, we cannot communicate with your family and other loved ones about your health without your written consent.

How You Can Use Your Records?

Your health records belong to you. You have the right to see them at any time. You can review the information, make updates and/or corrections and receive your own copy. You may also request a record of who has accessed your information. If you have more questions, please don’t hesitate to ask us.

Our clients are encouraged to guide their own treatment and to be active participants in reaching their goals.