Policy and Procedures

Policies and Procedures

WE ARE HERE TO HELP.  CALL US TODAY – (888) 743-5747

Confidentiality

The Healthcare Professionals’ Foundation of Louisiana highly values the confidentiality of both participants and those making reports or referrals.  It is our policy to neither confirm nor deny any individual’s involvement in the program without prior written consent.  In addition, we maintain the confidentiality of those making reports concerning the actual or potential impairment of a physician, physician assistant, podiatrist, medical psychologist, dentist, or dental hygienist (healthcare professional).

Of noteworthy importance, the assistance offered by the HPFL is confidential. For example, any professional who is experiencing a problem with substance use for which they have not been adequately treated or monitored, can access the HPFL’s services without any obligation on the part of the HPFL  to notify the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (LSBME) or the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry (LSBD). In fact, a professional participating in the HPFL for the first time can answer “No” on their license renewal to questions #1 and #2. 

There are some circumstances which the HPFL is mandated to report to the LSBME or LSBD. For instance, there is an obligation to inform when it receives information indicating a health care professional has diverted prescription drugs for trade or sale, information of a professional engaging in inappropriate behavior with a patient (boundary violation), or a return to substance use once in the program. However, in all cases, the LSBME, LSBD, and the HPFL PHP mutually support early detection and treatment of professionals.