Safeguarding confidential client information is essential to the Department of Social and Health Services. The Department promotes strong management practices to ensure client confidential information remains protected. If you believe the Department may have violated your privacy, please complete the Privacy Complaint Form. You also may write or submit a complaint electronically with the same information.
To submit a privacy complaint electronically please email the DSHS Privacy Officer at dshsprivacyofficer@dshs.wa.gov.
To mail a complaint, please send the complaint to:
Compliance
The Department is subject to several federal and state laws regarding the protection of confidential information.
- Pursuant to the Health Care Information Act (RCW 70.02.290)
- Please see the Department’s Administrative Policy regarding breach notification:
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
- As a hybrid covered entity, DSHS must notify affected clients of HIPAA privacy rights (45 CFR 164.520).
- DSHS Notice of Privacy Practices
Protect Yourself
If you are concerned your personal information has been exposed, you can find information on actions you can take to protect yourself on the following websites: