I.  POLICY STATEMENT
 

This document sets forth the policy of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (DMH) that the Department will refrain from retaliatory or intimidating acts against individuals who make complaints or assert any other rights under the Privacy Standards of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, 45 CFR Parts 160 thru 164 (HIPAA).
 

II.  DEFINITION
 

Workforce Members: Means those persons who perform duties and services as representatives/agents of the DMH including full and part time paid staff, students, interns and volunteers.
 

III.  POLICY
 

Provide the actual department policy/set of rules covering topics that include specific information on the policy subject, duties assigned to responsible parties, and other involved/related parties as necessary.  If applicable, provide a brief description of the compliance review process and specific authority to impose penalties or other remedies when noncompliance occurs.
 

IV.  PROCEDURES
 

Procedures - Refraining from Retaliatory or Intimidating Acts Against Individuals that Assert Rights Under HIPAA
 

V.  AUTHORITY
 

HIPAA, 45 CFR, Section 164.530(g)