Anyone have experience with EAP

[tarab333]

Hi there, I am about to enter an EAP, and wondered if anyone had any experiences with Employee Assistance Programs especially regarding substance abuse/counseling. What do I expect and is the information I provide to them really kept confidential? I am in Ohio, Cincinnati area, if anyone has any advice or experience, it is greatly appreciated.

[poppycat, ADN, BSN]

Also- they legally can not discuss what you tell them to your manager. It's a dr. Ot privilege. So anyone who claims this has happened was wronged or they are being untruthful

Are you serious? They can disclose whatever they feel like. They are paid by the same employer as you. Who do you think they're going to be loyal to?

And just for for the record: I'm not a liar.

[Davey Do]

I have used EAP services for everything from work related to personal issues, found the Therapist very helpful and have not, to the best of my knowledge, ever had any information breached.

I am sorry to hear that poppycat experienced otherwise and believe such situations do exist.

The Medical Center where I work has specific guidelines to follow in circumstances dealing with information, communication, codes of conduct, and the like. Without going into detail, I have found that many guidelines are merely a big show for accreditation and/or surveying entities. And the response to serious Patient safety concerns from those surveying and accreditation agencies was the same: a big show.

In conclusion, I have made decision to report to Administration and objectively document concerns and then just let it go. I have fulfilled my responsibility and any negative ramifications will rest on the actions or inactions of the higher ups.

As far as the EAP Therapist, I trust him and will continue to utilize his services.

[Cheyenne RN,BSHS]

I've posted previously that I made the mistake of talking to someone in EAP at a previous employer. The next thing I knew, my manager called me into her office & told me everything I had discussed with EAP. I went to EAP specifically so that my manager & coworkers would not know anything about my personal problems. I will never go to EAP at any employer again. Information is not kept confidential.

Oh PoppyCat I am so sorry that happened to you. That is so against the law and that EAP professional should be taken to their licensing review board. Everyone that works as an EAP provider has a license to do their job and confidentiality in psyche issues is a huge deal.

OP I have used EAP after my child died. Our hospital contracts with and uses outside affiliates to do the actual counseling. I would be too paranoid to talk to anyone that works in the same building as myself. I have always had trust issues.

You should have the right to choose who you go see and I would ask what services and LPCs are available. Even with medical care or workers comp injuries they usually have a certain group of doctors that they want you to use but there is still a choice within that group.

[AshBuggin]

Are you serious? They can disclose whatever they feel like. They are paid by the same employer as you. Who do you think they're going to be loyal to?

And just for for the record: I'm not a liar.

Perhaps things are different in FL and I'm not calling anyone a liar. My counselor isn't affiliated with my place of work-EAP covers the cost.

[AshBuggin]

Nice thought, i would not trust them as far as i could throw them, and i am old

It isn't just a thought. I signed a legal document. They can not disclose any information regarding my treatment. EAP covers the cost and I chose my in-network provider. I know 2 nurse managers personally who agree with me on this. Hippa applies to us too.

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

I would recommend caution if you're dealing with mental health or substance abuse issues. In some states, counselors are required to report these issues to professional licensing boards... it's not HIPAA protected, since it is a legal requirement.

[morte, LPN, LVN]

It isn't just a thought. I signed a legal document. They can not disclose any information regarding my treatment. EAP covers the cost and I chose my in-network provider. I know 2 nurse managers personally who agree with me on this. Hippa applies to us too.

if you are dealing with honorable persons. the does not mean they physically can not, only legally. and, as you have seen by previous poster, it does happen.

[morte, LPN, LVN]

I would recommend caution if you're dealing with mental health or substance abuse issues. In some states, counselors are required to report these issues to professional licensing boards... it's not HIPAA protected, since it is a legal requirement.

another reason to go to someone whom will not know what your occupation is.

[tarab333, BSN]

Thanks for all of your comments. It is truly disconcerting to hear about the breaches of confidentially. I entered into the EAP because my work offered it for substance abuse, so my experience may be a little different than others, as this issue has already been reported both to the board and legal system. I have to say, so far the EAP has been a good experience and they have referred me to Intensive Outpatient Therapy for 6 weeks. Thanks again for all of the advice.