Ethics-Based Training Manual for Non-Clinical Staff in Mental Health Settings

A Staff Training Manual with a Reference Appendix for Employer/Provider

(National Edition)

Mary Alice Fisher, Ph.D. (2021)

Employee training rarely includes formal discussion of ethics.  Yet, mental health professionals are ethically responsible for training staff in procedures that meet their professional ethical standards. Otherwise, they may unintentionally behave in ways that place clients at risk.  Ethics training for non-clinical staff therefore protects both clients and clinicians.  This sample training manual is designed to meet the ethical/legal portion of staff training requirements as found in Ethics Codes and federal HIPAA Regulations.

 

NOTE:  This manual is based on the outline published in the following article, available in HTML on this website:  Fisher, M.A. (2009). Ethics-Based Training for Non-Clinical Staff in Mental Health Settings.  Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, Vol. 40  (#5), 459-466.

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National Edition
Ethics-Based Training Manual for Non-Clinical Staff in Mental Health Settings

Manual: $40.00

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Home Study Test for Staff Training Manual – National Edition: $54.00

4 CE Credits – (30 test items)

Click here to order by check >

(Costs include sales tax, postage, and handling)

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LEARNING GOALS:

1. To describe the ethical & legal implications of staff involvement with patients and their records;
2. To explain the areas of training necessary and appropriate for non-clinical staff;
3. To describe the importance of having clear policies and procedures for staff to follow;
4. To outline an appropriate training schedule for updating staff;
5. To list the advantages and complications of pooling resources for staff training.

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION

I. Underlying Ethical Principles

II. Office Environment

A. Establishing & Maintaining Appropriate Atmosphere

B. Responding to Difficult Patient Situations

C. Responding to Patients’ Questions

III. Patient Privacy & Confidentiality

A. Understanding the Ethical & Legal Requirements

1. Ethical Rules About Confidentiality & Consent for Disclosure

2. Legal Rules About Confidentiality & Consent for Disclosure

3. Consequences of Unauthorized Disclosures

B. Following Our Policies About Privacy & Confidentiality

1. Protecting Patient’s Right to Privacy While In Our Office

2. Protecting Patient’s Right to Confidentiality (Non-Disclosure)

a. Rule: Disclose Information Only With Patient Consent

b. Rule: Handle/Store/Dispose of Patient Information Carefully

c. Protocol: Responding to Requests for Patient Information

d. Protocol: Telephone

e. Protocol: Photocopier

f. Protocol: E-Mail

g. Protocol: FAX

3. Signing the Employee Confidentiality Contract

IV. Relationship With Clients

V. Billing Patients and/or Third Parties for Reimbursement

A. Ethical & Legal Requirements/Limitations

1. Providing Accurate Information; Avoiding Insurance Fraud

2. Monitoring Electronic Transmissions of Claims

3. Honoring Limitations in Provider Contracts

B. Our Policies re: Electronic Transmission of Claims & Treatment Plans

VI. Other Policies/Procedures With Ethical/Legal Implications

A. Maintaining Boundaries & Avoiding Dual Relationships With Patients

B. Operating Within Specified Job Description

C. Monitoring Privacy, Confidentiality, and HIPAA compliance

APPENDIX

Ethical Standards

Legal Requirements

Statutes, Regulations, & Cases (Listing to be completed by Employer)

Federal HIPAA Regulations (Summary)

Ethical Model Protecting Confidentiality Rights

Integrating Ethical Standards, State Law, & HIPAA

Sample Forms & Contracts

Documentation of Employee Training

Employee Confidentiality Contract

Sample Employee Test

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National Edition
Ethics-Based Training Manual for Non-Clinical Staff in Mental Health Settings

Manual: $40.00

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Home Study Test for Staff Training Manual – National Edition: $54.00

4 CE Credits – (30 test items)

Click here to order by check >

(Costs include sales tax, postage, and handling)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *