10 – 21. Disclosure to non-Department of Defense employers, employment services, or agencies a. Written consent of the patient is required (see para 10 – 27). b. Ordinarily, disclosures pursuant to this paragraph should be limited to a verification of the patient's status in treatment or a general evaluation of progress in treatment. More specific information maybe furnished where there is a bona fide need to evaluate hazards which employment may pose to the patient or others or where such information is otherwise directly relevant to the employment situation. c. Subject to the provisions of paragraphs 10–21a and 10–21b, disclosure is authorized if it is determined that the following criteria are met (1) There is reason to believe, on the basis of past experience or other credible information (which may inappropriate cases consist of a written statement by the employer, that such information will be used for the purpose of assisting in the rehabilitation/treatment of the patient. Such information must not be disclosed for the purpose of identifying the individual as a patient in order to deny him or her employment or advancement because of his or her history of alcohol or drug abuse. (2) The information sought appears to be reasonably necessary, in view of the type of employment involved.
