I am writing on behalf of my boyfriend. He checked himself into the hospital for alcohol detox. He was later transferred to another facility because the first facility did not have overnight accommodations for detox. Meanwhile he was assured of patient confidentiality. At that facility one of the psychaitrists called his works' governing agency to report the alcoholism diagnosis. The governing agency said that since no violation occurred at work or on said premeses that there was going to be no report. Then the Dr. decided to call his company and let them know of her diagnosis of alcoholism. EAP got involved and now the situation is very unfavorable for several reasons. Not only will this be very financially damaging but it has hurt his work relations/position. I am wondering if her decision to report information to these persons was a violation of HIPAA regulations and if so does he have any legal rights to pursue a case against the hospital or the doctor? If he should pursue legal means, do you have the contact informaton for a lawyer in the Parker or Denver Colorado area that could assist with our questions?

I appreciate your time,
Amy

It sure sounds like a hipaa violation unless he's a pilot or a professional driver.

It sure is - employers do not have he right to an employees medical information. I worked in HR and if an employee wanted to talk to me about anything health related they had to sign a bunch of waivers and have ALL of their rights explained to me. I would contact an lawyer and see what you can do.