Compliance for House Bill 4224

 

NOTICE TO TEXAS CONSUMERS: HEALTH CARE RECORDS AND COMPLAINTS

This notice is provided in compliance with Texas House Bill 4224 (89th Regular Session) and Section 181.105 of the Texas Health and Safety Code.

*Please be aware prior to considering a request of your private health records*: 

  • Clinical vs. Personal Use: Mental health records are primarily technical documents designed for clinical coordination and insurance compliance. They consist of shorthand notes, diagnostic codes, and observations that are often a poor reflection of the actual therapeutic experience or the progress you have made.
  • Potential for Misinterpretation: Because these notes are written for other healthcare professionals, they may contain clinical impressions that appear clinical, detached, or distressing when read without the context of a live session.

The "Treatment Summary" Alternative: In many cases, a Treatment Summary is a more helpful and less overwhelming alternative to a full file release. A summary provides a clear overview of your progress, goals, and treatment themes without the raw, technical data of individual session notes.

Irreversibility of Release: Once a record is released, the information therein cannot be "unseen" or retracted. We ask that you carefully consider how viewing these clinical entries might impact your current mental health journey or your relationship with the therapeutic process.

1. How to Request Your Health Care Records

You have the right to access and obtain copies of your health care records maintained by this entity.

    • Request via Records Request Form: Forms can be downloaded and printed Here.
    • In-Person: Deliver the form to your therapist directly.

Out of Area Requests: Mail the completed, printed and notarized form to 440 Johnson Rd, Suite C, Keller, TX 76248.

  • No copies will be provided electronically. 
  • Fees: A fee of $75 fee will be charged for the preparation and copying of your records as permitted by Texas law. A cost of .08 per page will then be charged per page of record. If delivery is by certified mail, mailing charges will apply. 
  • Response Time: We will respond to your request within 15 business days of receipt, as required by the Texas Medical Board.

2. Contacting the Licensing or Disciplinary Authority

If you have questions or concerns regarding the professional conduct or practice standards of this entity, you may contact our licensing authority:

  • Authority Name: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC) 
  • Contact Information: BHEC Complaint Form The completed form can be sent by email to Enforcement@bhec.texas.gov or by mail to 1801 Congress Avenue, Suite 7.300, Austin, Texas 78701.

3. Filing a Consumer Complaint

You have the right to file a formal complaint regarding the use or protection of your health information.

Texas Attorney General: Complaints may be filed through the Office of the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.  Office of the Attorney General Consumer Protection Division, P.O. Box 12548, Austin, TX 78711-2548