The hospital records of and information pertaining to patients at treatment facilities or patients being treated by physicians, psychologists (as defined in Section 73-31-3(e)), licensed master social workers or licensed professional counselors shall be confidential and shall be released only: (a) upon written authorization of the patient; (b) upon order of a court of competent jurisdiction; (c) when necessary for the continued treatment of a patient; (d) when, in the opinion of the director, release is necessary for the determination of eligibility for benefits, compliance with statutory reporting requirements, or other lawful purpose; or (e) when the patient has communicated to the treating physician, psychologist (as defined in Section 73-31-3(e)), master social worker or licensed professional counselor an actual threat of physical violence against a clearly identified or reasonably identifiable potential victim or victims, and then the treating physician, psychologist (as defined in Section 73-31-3(e)), master social worker or licensed professional counselor may communicate the threat only to the potential victim or victims, a law enforcement agency, or the parent or guardian of a minor who is identified as a potential victim.
Structure Mississippi Code
Chapter 21 - Individuals with Mental Illness or an Intellectual Disability
Persons in Need of Mental Treatment
§ 41-21-71. Procedure after examination; release or confinement pending hearing
§ 41-21-73. Procedures for hearing; evidence; witnesses; commitment; disposition and findings
§ 41-21-76. Waiver of rights by respondent
§ 41-21-77. Commitment to state hospital or Veterans Administration facility
§ 41-21-82. Report prior to termination of initial commitment or discharge
§ 41-21-83. Hearing on need for further treatment
§ 41-21-85. Payment of costs of hearing on need for further treatment
§ 41-21-89. Discharge at behest of patient, attorney, relative or guardian
§ 41-21-91. Deportation of nonresidents
§ 41-21-93. Warrant for patient absent without authorization
§ 41-21-97. Confidentiality of hospital records and information; exceptions
§ 41-21-99. Continued care of patients
§ 41-21-101. Admissions and commitments not adjudication of incompetency