Confidentiality
Confidentiality is a high priority at the Wellness Center. Students should expect all aspects of their care to be treated confidentially. Health and counseling services provided through the Wellness Center are confidential, including services related to sexual health, such as STI testing and contraception; medical diagnosis and treatment; and alcohol and substance use.
When Information May Be Shared
Wellness Center staff will only share a student's information when written consent has been obtained from the student, except in circumstances when disclosure may be permitted or required without the student's consent.
These circumstances may include:
- A court order or subpoena for the student's medical record
- The student is at risk of harm to themselves or others
- The student makes or authorizes a claim under a health insurance or other health benefit plan, or designates another individual as responsible for payment
- The law requires information to be reported to a public official, such as certain communicable diseases or injuries caused by violent means
- The student is a minor
Students Under Age 18
A student under 18 years of age is considered a minor and generally must have parental consent to obtain medical care, except in certain circumstances, including emergencies. A parent or guardian of a minor may generally receive medical information about their child; however, exceptions may apply to certain services, including sexual health and substance use treatment.
Protecting Your Information
The Wellness Center is not subject to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and therefore is not required to comply with certain federal HIPAA regulations governing the use and disclosure of health information.
Wellness Center staff are bound by professional and ethical standards regarding confidentiality and are committed to protecting students' personal and health-related information.
