Health Information Services

Your Health Record
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

NEMS' Health Information Services Department (HIS) maintains and safeguards all of your individually identifiable health information. Your health records include all the necessary information for your NEMS providers to provide accurate and complete care in a timely manner. This information is also maintained to follow regulations, accreditation standards, and legal standards.

Your health records (including x-rays) are the property of NEMS and are maintained for the benefit of you as a patient, the health care providers, and the clinic. We will not release your health information without your written authorization, except as required or permitted by law. You may request to review and/or receive copies of your health records subject to legal restrictions and related charges. Additionally, you must sign a release to authorize someone else (including family members) to receive your health records. Response to these requests may take up to five working days.

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) was enacted to create rational confidentiality standards for all health information. On April 14, 2003, NEMS, as a health care provider, became HIPAA compliant. NEMS has prepared the "NEMS Notice of Privacy of Information Practices," which describes how health information about you may be used and disclosed, and how you can access this information. It is important that you know your rights regarding Protected Health Information (PHI). If you have any questions regarding HIPAA, please contact the Member Services Department at 415-391-9686.