Notice of Privacy Practices

Why did I receive a Notice of Privacy Practices from the Fire Department?

The Mount Vernon Fire Department is a medical provider; we take your health privacy very seriously.  Unlike your medical provider, emergency services maintain patient records per each incident, so you will receive a privacy notice every time you receive our services.  You can also request a copy at any time.

Why do I have to sign a form?

The law requires that your doctor, hospital, or other healthcare providers ask you to state in writing that you received the notice.  

• The law does not require you to sign the "acknowledgment of receipt of the notice."
• Signing does not mean you have agreed to any special uses or disclosures (sharing) of your health records.
• Refusing to sign the acknowledgment does not prevent a provider or plan from using or disclosing health information as HIPAA permits.
• If you refuse to sign the acknowledgment, we must keep a record of this fact.

What is in the Notice?

The notice must describe the following:

• How the Privacy Rule allows us to use and disclose protected health information.  It must also explain that your permission (authorization) is necessary before your health records are shared for any other reason.
• The City of Mount Vernon's duty to protect health information privacy.
• Your privacy rights, including the right to complain to HHS and the organization if you believe your privacy rights have been violated.
• How to contact the organization for more information and to make a complaint.

When and how can I receive a Notice of Privacy Practices?

As we are an emergency service provider, you will receive the notice as soon as possible after the emergency.

The notice is also posted at all of our fire stations, where you can view it, and a copy will be provided to anyone who asks for one.

You can also download a full version of our Notice of Privacy Practices here.