Confidentiality Policy for users of Project Mann ki Baat

The Shushruta Foundation is committed to maintaining the confidentiality and privacy of all individuals who seek emotional and mental health support through the “Mann ki Baat” project. We understand the sensitive nature of personal information and prioritize the security and protection of patient data.

1. Scope of Confidentiality

• Definition: Confidentiality refers to the responsibility of the Mann ki Baat project to protect patient information, including personal details, mental health history, session notes, and any information shared during the support process.
• Who is Covered: This policy applies to all users using the Mann ki Baat platform and any Shushruta Foundation staff or volunteers who interact with patient information regardless of their location or nationality. 

2. Types of Information Collected

• Personal Information: Includes name, contact details, and demographic information necessary for providing individualized support. We do not collect information on users’ ethnicity or race.
• Medical and Mental Health Information: Includes any details users share related to their mental health status, challenges, symptoms, or other relevant details.
• Session Records: Notes and observations from sessions, consultations, or interactions through Mann ki Baat’s support channels.

3. Use and Disclosure of Information

• Purpose of Collection: Patient information is collected solely for the purpose of providing mental health support, assessing individual needs, and improving the quality of services offered by Mann ki Baat.
• Restrictions on Disclosure: Patient information will not be shared with any third parties without explicit consent from the patient, except in cases where required by law (e.g., risk of harm to self or others, abuse, or court orders).
• Internal Use Only: Patient information may be accessed by authorized Shushruta Foundation personnel involved in the Mann ki Baat project, strictly on a need-to-know basis to deliver appropriate support.

4. Exceptions to Confidentiality

• Legal Obligations: In certain circumstances, we may be legally obligated to disclose patient information to comply with applicable laws or regulations, such as reporting imminent threats of harm or abuse.
• Preventing Harm: If a patient poses a clear, immediate threat to themselves or others, we may need to disclose certain information to appropriate authorities to ensure safety and prevent harm.
• Emergency Situations: In cases of medical or psychological emergencies, necessary information may be disclosed to emergency responders or relevant medical personnel to facilitate urgent care.

5. Security of Patient Information

• Data Protection: We implement robust security measures, including encryption, secure storage, and access control protocols, to protect patient information from unauthorized access, misuse, or disclosure.
• Access Restrictions: Only authorized Shushruta Foundation staff and volunteers directly involved in patient care or project administration have access to patient information.
• Data Retention: Patient records are retained only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy or as required by law. Once no longer needed, records will be securely deleted.

6. Patient Rights

• Access to Information: users have the right to access their personal information held by the Shushruta Foundation. Requests can be made by contacting us at [contact email].
• Amendments to Information: users may request corrections to inaccurate or incomplete information by providing updated details.
• Right to Withdraw Consent: users can withdraw consent to the use of their information at any time. However, this may affect our ability to provide ongoing support.

7. Training and Accountability

• Staff Training: All staff and volunteers involved in the Mann ki Baat project receive training on confidentiality and data protection practices to ensure compliance with this policy.
• Accountability: The Shushruta Foundation is committed to maintaining a culture of privacy and accountability. Any breach of patient confidentiality by staff or volunteers may result in disciplinary action.

8. Changes to Confidentiality Policy

• The Shushruta Foundation may periodically update this Confidentiality Policy to reflect changes in our practices, legal requirements, or operational needs. users will be informed of any material changes through emails, web notification and social media (Be specific), and the updated policy will be made available on our website.
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9. Contact Information

• For questions, concerns, or further information regarding this Confidentiality Policy, please contact us at info.pmkb@gmail.com