Current through Register Vol. XLII, No. 1, January 3, 2025
Section 69-17-8 - Participant Rights8.1. Each syringe services program shall have policies and procedures that guarantee the following rights to participants:8.1.1. To be informed, both verbally and in writing, of program rules and regulations and participant's rights and responsibilities;8.1.2. To receive services provided in a fair and impartial manner free from unlawful discriminatory practices pursuant to W. Va. Code § 5-11-9;8.1.3. To be informed about the financial aspects of any services provided by the harm reduction program and the syringe services program;8.1.4. To ensure confidentiality in accordance with federal regulations, 42 C.F.R. Part 2 , and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, as amended;8.1.5. To be informed of the extent of confidentiality, including the conditions under which information can be released without consent, the use of identifying information for the purpose of program evaluation and statutory requirements for reporting abuse;8.1.6. To give informed consent prior to being involved in research projects and the right to retain a copy of the informed consent form; and8.1.7. To inform each participant about all service procedures, services, and other policies and procedures throughout the course of treatment.8.2. The syringe services program shall notify participants at least 30 days in advance of its intent to permanently change service hours.8.3. The syringe services program shall provide notice of how to file a complaint with the Office of Health Facility Licensure and Certification, which shall be displayed in the participant service area in a conspicuous place and easily available to participants. The notice shall include the Office of Health Facility Licensure and Certification's telephone number and website.8.4. The syringe services program shall have policies and procedures that address safety and security issues for participants and staff, including training staff to handle physical or verbal threats, acts of violence, and inappropriate behavior or other escalating and potentially dangerous situations, with emphasis on when assistance needs to be summoned.