HIPAA’s Notice of Privacy Practices (NPP)
(Substance Use Disorder Records – 42 CFR Part 2)
Notice Regarding Substance Use Disorder Records
Special Confidentiality Protections for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Information
Some information we receive or maintain about you may include records related to the diagnosis, treatment, or referral for substance use disorder (SUD). These records are protected by federal law under 42 CFR Part 2, in addition to the protections provided by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
Federal law provides additional and more stringent confidentiality protections for SUD records. Our office complies with both HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 and applies these protections concurrently, as required by law.
How This May Apply to Dental Care
In certain situations, a patient’s medical history may include substance use disorder treatment information that is relevant to dental care.
For example, a patient taking medications such as Suboxone, which may cause dry mouth or other oral health effects, may have this information documented in their dental record. Any such SUD-related information is protected under federal law and handled with heightened confidentiality.
Uses and Disclosures of SUD Records
If we receive SUD records that are protected under 42 CFR Part 2:
- We may use or disclose such records only as permitted by federal law and, when required, only with your valid written consent.
- SUD records may not be disclosed for any civil, criminal, administrative, or legislative proceeding against you unless:
- You have provided specific written consent for the disclosure; or
- A court orders the disclosure after providing you (or your legal representative) notice and an opportunity to be heard.
Disclosures without consent are permitted only in very limited circumstances as specifically allowed by law.
Your Rights Regarding SUD Records
- You have additional privacy rights related to SUD records that are more restrictive than those provided under HIPAA alone.
- Certain uses or disclosures that HIPAA might otherwise allow require specific written consent under 42 CFR Part 2.
- You have the right to:
- Refuse to provide consent for the use or disclosure of SUD records; and
- Revoke your consent at any time, as permitted by law.
Our Commitment to Privacy
We are committed to maintaining the confidentiality of SUD records in accordance with 42 CFR Part 2 and HIPAA.
This Notice is provided to you at your first visit, made available upon request, and updated as required by law. Revised notices will be provided following any significant changes to our privacy practices.
Compliance Timeline
These updates reflect new federal requirements for substance use disorder records and must be implemented by February 16, 2026.