The California Department of Health has issued a new All Facilities Letter addressing the Standard Admission Agreement for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and intermediate care facilities (ICFs). The letter clarifies that Attachment E, which pertains to the Confidentiality of Medical Information Act, is not a substitute for compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Facilities may add specific statements to Attachment E to ensure compliance with both Civil Code Section 56.11 and HIPAA. These additions include acknowledging the voluntary nature of signing the authorization, the right to withdraw permission for the facility to release information, and the legal authority to act for the resident. Any further alterations to the form or the Standard Admission Agreement must be requested in writing and approved by the Department.

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