This final rule makes changes to the Department of Health and Human
Services’ (HHS) regulations governing the Confidentiality of Substance Use Disorder
Patient Records. These changes were prompted by the need to continue aligning the
regulations with advances in the U.S. health care delivery system, while retaining
important privacy protections for individuals seeking treatment for substance use
disorders (SUDs). SAMHSA strives to facilitate information exchange for safe and
effective SUD care, while addressing the legitimate privacy concerns of patients seeking
treatment for a SUD. Within the constraints of the authorizing statute, these changes are
also an effort to make the regulations more understandable and less burdensome.
Related Resources: