I work for a mental health facility. It's a suicide and homicide call center. I received a call about a child throwing a dog around and letting it slam on its head and the child sexually abusing the dog and family hamster by shoving a pencil in its genitals. I made a report to animal control and protective services because I felt it was really cruel and horrible. I didn't provide any mental health information, but did provide address and names and relevant information. Today a coworker of mine had a similar situation, but didn't want to call animal control because she "doesn't care for animals". We started talking about it and she asked our supervisor if it was necessary by law (like child abuse and/or adult abuse). My supervisor said to wait so she could make sure it wasn't a hipaa violation. I never thought it would be a violation. I had mentioned I had done it before, so if it turns out it is a hipaa violation I wonder if I'll get in trouble? When I made the report it was 2 months ago.

You did "provide names and relevant" information. Depending on your role in this person's treatment, it could most definitely be a HIPAA violation. You could stand to lose your job and be subjected to fines.

I could use some additional information. Is that child or family receiving care from you facility?