Confidentiality

Rule

All applicant/recipient information is confidential and is released only upon written request.

Release of Confidential Information

When the applicant/recipient is present with their authorized representative, no written authorization is required for that particular occasion.

The written authorization must be dated and expires one year later or sooner if the applicant withdraws their authorization in writing. Any limitation or conditions imposed by the client in their authorization must be honored.

Release to Other Agencies

Confidential information may be released to other welfare departments or health agencies without the authorization of the applicant or recipient, provided such agency's records are confidential and the information is necessary to serve the applicant/recipient.

Confidential information may also be released to the following officials without the authorization of the applicant or recipient, providing the request relates to administration of public welfare:

Grand Jury members
District Attorney
County Counsel, and
Legislative committees.

Release by Telephone Call

If information is released by telephone, the Social Services Benefits Specialist (SSBS) must be certain of the identity of the caller.

Information can be released by telephone only if the client and their representative are both on the telephone at the same time.

Release by Court Order

Information may be released by Court Order. The SSBS must produce the records, advising the legal officer receiving them that they are confidential in nature.

Notice of Sharing of Information for the Administration of Public Benefits Program (SCD 103)

With the implementation of CalWORKs and the increased involvement of various community partners who are assisting our families in becoming self-sufficient, it is required that all CalWORKs clients be given an SCD 103 at intake and redetermination (RD).

The SCD 103 informs our clients that we may share limited information about them and/or the persons for whom they receive CalWORKs benefits. The information shared is directly connected to the administration of the CalWORKs program and eligibility for services or benefits provided by community partners.

Medi-Cal Section

With the implementation of the Children’s Health Initiative, it has become necessary for our Agency to share Medi-Cal information with others involved in the application process. The Medi-Cal section of SCD 103 informs clients that the following agencies may exchange information:

Santa Clara County Social Services Agency
Santa Clara Valley Health and Hospital System
Santa Clara Family Health Plan, and
Healthier Kids Foundation.