Access to Health Records & Consumer Rights

  • In accordance with House Bill 4224 and Texas Health and Safety Code § 181.105, Rooted in Wellness Therapy, PLLC provides information to assist clients and members of the public with requesting access to health care records, contacting the appropriate state licensing authority, and filing a consumer complaint.

  • Procedure for Requesting Records

    To request access to health care records, clients must follow the procedure outlined below:

    1. Written Request Required
      Requests must be submitted in writing via email. You will then receive the required Authorization for Release of Health Information form, which must be completed, signed, and returned to the practice before records can be released.

    2. Required Identifying Information
      The written request must include the client’s full legal name, date of birth, and a clear and specific description of the records being requested.

    3. Verification and Fees
      All requests are subject to identity verification. Reasonable, cost-based fees may apply for copying, mailing, or electronic transmission of records, as permitted by HIPAA and Texas law.

    4. Response Timeframe
      Records will be provided within the timeframes required by HIPAA and applicable Texas law. Extensions may be permitted as allowed by law, and the client will be notified if an extension is necessary.

    Requests by Authorized Representatives

    If records are requested on behalf of another individual, the requester must provide documentation demonstrating legal authority to act on the individual’s behalf. Acceptable documentation may include, but is not limited to:

    • Court-appointed guardianship documentation

    • Valid medical power of attorney

    Privacy and Confidentiality

    To safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of protected health information (PHI), this practice reserves the right to verify the identity and authority of any individual requesting access to records. All disclosures are made in compliance with HIPAA Privacy Rule requirements and applicable state law.

    Questions

    For questions regarding access to records or this policy, please contact the practice using the contact information listed on this website.

  • If you believe your rights have been violated or you wish to file a consumer complaint, you may contact the Office of the Texas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

    You can file a complaint online at:https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection/file-consumer-complaint

    This process is independent of the practice and allows consumers to raise concerns related to services provided in Texas.

    These disclosures are provided in accordance with Texas House Bill 4224 and Texas Health & Safety Code §181.105.

  • If you wish to contact the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC), which oversees behavioral health licensing boards in Texas, you may do so using the information below:

    Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council

    The Council can provide information regarding licensure, regulations, and the process for filing a consumer complaint.