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703 Chapter 3:Processes and procedures • Section 5: Program integrity (07/2026) Program integrity Introduction Many aspects of ODHS|OHA programs are not covered in basic eligibility and benefit determination. These are a part of a greater entity called “program integrity,” which includes such categories as definitions, confidentiality, overpayments, hearings, Direct Pay Unit, Background Check Unit, Job Participation Incentives, quality control, and participant rights and responsibilities. This area of the manual may be updated as needed with program changes. Other resources Crisis Response: Covers helpful tips and best practices for managers and workers when crisis situations arise Confidentiality ODHS|OHA works with many types of information. It is critical this information is kept confidentially and not shared with outside entities or individuals. This information is kept confidential by permanent and temporary employees, as well as volunteers or contractors of all ODHS|OHA programs who either work at a local office or have access to any ODHS|OHA database, case management software or email access for the state. The intent of confidentiality policies are as follows: • To preserve the confidentiality and privacy of individual and family information, • To work together with partners, other agencies and the individual for the benefit of the individual, and • To summarize how information about individuals may be used and disclosed, consistent with confidentiality requirements. Confidentiality is presumed. All information that identifies an individual is considered confidential. ODHS|OHA’s expectations are that employees, volunteers and contractors covered by this policy may not release or disclose individual information, except as specifically authorized by the individual in writing, by statute or administrative rule, or as ordered by a court. This means that in responding to questions about an individual, staff must not even identify the person as being served by ODHS|OHA. This policy summarizes the situations in which use and disclosure is permitted. A signed Authorization for Disclosure, Sharing and Use of Individual Information (MSC 3010) ) form from the individual is needed if there is any question regarding whether a release of information is required. The request should honor and respect the choice and dignity of families, not an impediment to providing services. ODHS|OHA employees who violate ODHS|OHA policies and procedures regarding the safeguarding of information about an individual are subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal, as well as legal action by the individual. ODHS|OHA employees who knowingly and willfully violate state and federal law for improper use or disclosure of information about an individual are subject to criminal and civil penalties. Staff must make reasonable efforts to limit the individual information they are using, requesting or disclosing to the minimum necessary in the particular situation. This requirement does not apply to: • Disclosures or requests by a health care provider for treatment