REPORTING: Confidentiality and Disclosure of Information
To Whom Information Is Disclosed
Reports to Child Protective Services, other written reports, and photographs are confidential. They should only be made available to individuals and agencies involved with determining how to handle the case. The outcome of the investigation is generally available to the medical provider who has made the report.
Limits of Privileged Information
New York State recognizes privileged information between a person authorized to practice medicine and a patient. However, as a mandated reporter, you must cooperate in the child abuse investigation.
A city or county Social Services Commissioner may withhold information deemed not related to the purpose for which the information was requested or when the disclosure will be detrimental to the child.
Confidentiality of Source and Report
Unless the state or local Department of Social Services has obtained written consent from the person who made the report, it may not release the person's name or identifying information to anyone, including those named in the report. Exceptions are made for criminal justice and judiciary bodies or individuals.
