When it comes to your health, you deserve the right to privacy and confidentiality! It starts with feeling secure that your health information will not be shared inappropriately. All University Health Services employees, including health care and mental health professionals, are confidential employees. Confidential employees will not share information disclosed to them with others without the express permission of the person making the disclosure or as required or permitted by applicable law or professional codes of ethics (such as cases involving imminent risk of serious harm). Providing confidential services means that University Health Services employees do not release your information outside UHS without your permission.
Exceptions to confidentiality may arise in situations involving danger to yourself or others, abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult, responses to lawsuits and legal actions, subpoenas or orders from other tribunals or state agencies, in compliance with state and federal law and UO policy. Additional exceptions may arise, particularly in the context of legal proceedings, in which event you will be notified as appropriate, consistent with UHS employee professional obligations and state and federal law. It is important to note that if legal action is anticipated or if the university is served with a subpoena, you may have additional protections as described in the Confidentiality of Client/Patient Health Care and Survivors’ Services Information policy.
What about my medical records, especially in light of the 21st Century Cures Act Final Rule?
The federal 21st Century Cures Act Final Rule mandates that health care providers give patients easy access to many parts of their electronic health record (sometimes referred to informally as “Open Notes”). This law allows for transparency between providers and patients and can lead to open dialogue about the care being provided.
UHS encourages you to be the sole person who has access to the myUOHealth portal and not to share your access with anyone. Your confidential information is at risk if others are able to access your records in the portal.
Can I receive services at UHS without an Open Note showing up on myUOHealth Portal?
Yes! You can request a Privacy Exception, which is a form to complete before or during your visit to UHS. Ask a UHS patient services representative (PSR) or your medical assistant (MA) to send you a link to complete the form.
Can a provider decide not to include a note on the portal?
Yes, a provider can determine not to publish a visit summary if it will be harmful to the patient physically or mentally.
Where do I see these notes on the myUOHealth Portal?
Notes are available on the Clinic Visits tab in the myUOHealth Portal.