SAMHSA finalizes changes to the disclosure of SUD treatment records

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration today released a final rule amending federal regulations regarding disclosure of patient information for individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorders.

The changes to the regulations, known as 42 CFR Part 2, would reduce the burden and delay associated with accessing certain recovery services and add declared disasters to the list of exceptions. They implement AHA-supported provisions included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Safety Act to better align Part 2 information sharing policies for substance use treatment records with those under HIPAA.

AHA has urged the agency to further clarify which providers are covered by the regulations and work with Congress to fully align them with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act requirements. AHA members will receive more information on the final rule.