Privacy Policy
Mental Health Association in Orange County (MHAOC) is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of the individuals and families we serve. We recognize that personal and health information is sensitive, and we take our responsibility to safeguard that information seriously.
Protection of Health Information
MHAOC complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and all applicable federal and New York State privacy laws. Any protected health information (PHI) collected through our programs, services, or communications is handled with strict confidentiality.
We maintain administrative, technical, and physical safeguards designed to protect information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.
How We Use Information
Information collected by MHAOC is used only as necessary to:
- Provide and coordinate services
- Communicate with individuals and families about care or participation
- Connect individuals to appropriate resources and supports
- Improve the quality and effectiveness of our programs
- Meet legal, regulatory, and reporting requirements
MHAOC does not sell or share personal information for marketing purposes.
We do not disclose personal or health information without written consent, except when permitted or required by law.
Website and Online Forms
When you visit our website or submit information through online forms, we may collect personal information such as your name, contact details, and information relevant to your request.
MHAOC takes reasonable steps to protect information submitted online. Standard email and web forms may not be fully secure. For sensitive or urgent matters, we encourage direct contact by phone.
Information submitted through forms is used only for the purpose of responding to your request, coordinating services, or providing follow-up support.
Orange County Crisis Call Center (OCCCC) Privacy and Confidentiality
Mental Health Association in Orange County operates the Orange County Crisis Call Center (OCCCC), which provides 24/7 support through phone and text, including services connected to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Confidentiality of Crisis Services
Conversations with the Crisis Call Center are confidential and focused on providing support, safety planning, and connection to resources. Information shared during calls or texts is used only to assist the individual and ensure appropriate care and follow-up.
MHAOC limits access to this information to trained and authorized personnel directly involved in service delivery, supervision, and quality assurance.
When Information May Be Shared
MHAOC respects individual privacy and does not disclose information without consent except when permitted or required by law. This may include situations where:
- There is a concern for the immediate safety of the individual or others
- There is risk of serious harm, abuse, or neglect
- Coordination is needed with emergency services, mobile response teams, or other providers to ensure safety and care
In these situations, only the minimum necessary information is shared to respond effectively.
Crisis Call Documentation Systems
To support accurate, timely, and coordinated care, interactions with the Crisis Call Center may be documented using secure systems, including Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) and iCarol.
- Documentation may include contact information, presenting concerns, risk assessments, and referrals made
- Information is used to support service delivery, follow-up, coordination with response partners, and required reporting
- Access to these systems is restricted to authorized personnel and monitored to ensure appropriate use
All documentation is maintained in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and applicable confidentiality standards.
Sexual Assault Support and SAPA Services
Some individuals who contact the Crisis Call Center may be seeking support related to sexual violence and may be connected to MHAOC’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Advocacy (SAPA) services.
- Information shared in these situations is handled with heightened sensitivity and confidentiality
- Survivors are informed of their rights and options, including confidential advocacy services
- Information is only shared with consent, unless required to address immediate safety concerns or as required by law
- Coordination with hospitals, advocates, or partner agencies occurs in a manner that prioritizes survivor choice, privacy, and dignity
MHAOC is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all individuals seeking help through the Crisis Call Center.
Your Rights
Individuals have the right to:
- Request access to their personal or health information
- Request corrections to their information
- Request limits on how their information is used or shared
- Receive information about how their data is protected
Requests can be made by contacting MHAOC directly.
Contact Information
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or how your information is handled, please contact:
Mental Health Association in Orange County
73 James P. Kelly Way, Middletown NY
845-342-2400
info@mhaorangeny.com
