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BAM 310 10 of 29 CONFIDENTIALITY AND PUBLIC ACCESS TO CASE RECORDS BPB 2022-015 7-1-2022

BRIDGES ADMINISTRATIVE MANUAL STATE OF MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE All Programs Confidentiality may be critical to the safety of the client when domestic violence is present. Document clearly in Bridges if an individual is identified as a victim of domestic violence. No information can be released, even to acknowledge the name and benefit amount, if the client has been identified as a victim of domestic violence or has stated that: • The client was physically and/or emotionally abused by a current or former spouse/companion; and • The client fears that being identified will lead to a recurrence of such abuse. A completed DHS-970, or its equivalent, can be used for this purpose. This process prohibits only MDHHS from releasing information. Advise the client that contacting other persons and agencies to request withholding of information is the client's responsibility. Exception: For requests for information from law enforcement officials, see Access by Government Officials in this item. Note: For FAP, when a client/authorized representative (individual interviewed on the client's behalf) requests a copy of an application or redetermination, any domestic violence information must be redacted from their copy. CLIENT ACCESS TO CASE RECORDS All Programs Case materials not separately restricted by law or court order must be available to the client upon request, as indicated in this item. Telephone requests are not sufficient. Send the client a DHS-63 for completion or return. Correspondence that clearly identifies the client is also acceptable. Before providing any materials requested by mail, contact the client to verify that the client made the request.