UCS is open Monday through Thursday from 8am to 7pm, and Friday 8am to 5pm.

Some UCS programs, such as residential support and crisis services, operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to ensure continuous support. 

If you need assistance, please call our main number at (802) 442-5491. 

During regular business hours: You will be connected with an Intake Specialist, who serves as your main point of contact to assess your needs and connect you with the appropriate services.

After hours: Crisis services remain available at the same number for immediate assistance.

If you are experiencing a crisis: 
If you are in crisis and need immediate assistance, call (802) 442-5491. 

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency CALL 911. 

UCS provides mental health services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When offices are closed, our answering service will take your name and phone number, and a UCS representative will return your call as quickly as possible. UCS Emergency Services offers immediate support for individuals in crisis, provides follow-up care, and coordinates additional services as needed. 

Genoa Healthcare is our on-site pharmacy, conveniently located at 100 Ledge Hill Drive. The pharmacy offers free delivery and curbside pickup for your convenience. 

Hours of Operation:
Monday – Friday 8:30 am to 5pm (Closed from 12:30 to 1 pm)
Phone: 802.681.4011
Fax: 802.448.6871

Pharmacy Services Include:

• Filled all medications – not just the behavioral health prescriptions
• Free mailing of medications, or convenient curbside pickup 
• Organized pill packaging by date and time to help you stay on schedule
• Assistance transferring prescriptions from other pharmacies 

Our goal is to provide person-centered services to individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities, which promote self-directed, meaningful lives within the community. The types of services are determined by an individual needs. 

The people served by Developmental Services (DS) must have a developmental disability as defined by the Developmental Disabilities Act of 1996. In this law, “developmental disability” means intellectual disability, autism, or pervasive developmental disorder that starts before the age of 18 and results in severe defects in adaptive behavior. Individuals must demonstrate a significant need for the services that are available.

United Counseling Service provides high-quality programs and supports for adults with developmental disabilities throughout Bennington County. 

To apply for these services, please contact the Public Consulting Group (PCG) to start the intake and eligibility process. 

• Phone: (833) 426-5668 
• Email: VTDDSDIntake@pcgus.com 
• Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm

For Current Clients: 

Benchmark
1795 Williston Road Suite 340
South Burlington, VT 05403
Phone: 802-419-0222 

Columbus
Phone: (610) 592-0292 
Toll Free: (800) 229-5116 
Fax: (888) 379-2524 
info@columbusorg.com 

For a Developmental Services Crisis 
For immediate services: 

Monday–Friday, 8am to 5pm: 
Contact the Developmental Services (DS) Division at (802) 445-7318. 

After Hours:
Call (802) 442-5491 to be connected with UCS Emergency Services staff. 

United Counseling Service (UCS) complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. UCS does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

UCS Provides: 

Free communication aids and services to people with disabilities to communicate effectively with us, such as: 

• Qualified sign language interpreters 
• Written information in other formats (large print, audio, accessible electronic formats, etc.) 

Free language service to people whose primary language is not English, such as: 

• Qualified interpreters 
• Information written in other languages 

If you need these services contact UCS at (802) 442-5491. 

If you believe that UCS has failed to provide these services or discriminated in another way on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex, you can file a grievance with UCS by mail or by phone at : UCS, Grievance Coordinator, 100 Ledge Hill Drive, PO Box 588, Bennington, VT 05201. 

You may also file a civil rights complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights online at https://ocrportal.hhs.gov, or by mail at U.S. Department Health and Human Services, 200 Independence Avenue SW, Room 509F, HHH Building, Washington, DC 20201, or by phone at 1-800-368-1019, 800-537-7697 (TDD).

At UCS, we use a team-based approach to ensure you receive the best possible support. Depending on the type of service you receive, several professionals may be involved in your care. 

Your first contact with United Counseling Service (UCS) may be by phone or, during office hours, by visiting one of our offices in person. You will be connected with an Intake Specialist, who will guide you through the administrative intake process.

UCS offers Same Day Access for clinical intakes to ensure you receive the right care, at the right time, in the right place, with the right provider. 

Your first appointment will last approximately 90 minutes. During this visit, you will: 

• Receive an orientation to UCS and our services 
• Complete a comprehensive clinical assessment 
• Be connected with the appropriate treatment provider 
• Schedule your next appointment before you leave 

All copayments are due at the time of service. In certain circumstances, fee waivers or reduced-fee assistance may be available. 

Many insurance plans cover mental health services. Our staff will review your insurance information with you and, if needed, help you apply for fee assistance. Please bring your insurance card to your appointment. 

If you are a Bennington County resident without the ability to pay the full fee, you may apply for reduced-fee assistance. 

Clients who do not have Medicaid or other insurance coverage will be provided with Health Exchange information and are encouraged to apply before your first visit to ensure coverage prior to beginning treatment. 

Clients responsible for copays, coinsurance, and/or deductibles are expected to pay these amounts at the time of service. 

Any remaining balance will be billed to you. Payments can be made easily and securely through the client portal. 

Measuring Your Progress
Your progress toward the goals you set with your treatment team will be reviewed regularly throughout your care. You are encouraged to share feedback and ask questions about your progress at any time. Working together with your team helps ensure that your treatment continues to meet your needs and supports your goals.

If You Have a Concern About Your Treatment
If you experience a problem or have a concern about your care, please start by talking directly with your treatment provider. Most issues can be resolved through open communication.

If the problem is not resolved, you may request to speak with your provider’s supervisor.

If these steps do not address your concern, please refer to the UCS Grievance Policy section for further guidance.

Cancellation and No-Show Policy
Your active participation in services plays an important role in your success. If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please call (802) 442-5491. You may leave a detailed message, and a staff member will return your call as soon as possible.

A no-show occurs when a client misses a scheduled appointment without providing notice. According to our No-Show Policy, if you miss two consecutive sessions, UCS may no longer be able to hold your future scheduled appointment time.

Transition Planning and Discharge from Care
From the very beginning of your care, your treatment team will work with you to develop a transition plan to ensure you are supported both during your time at UCS and after services end. This plan highlights your progress, accomplishments, and ongoing support systems to help you maintain your well-being.

Transition planning is person-centered and individualized to meet your unique needs. Together, you and your treatment team will decide when services are no longer needed and create a discharge plan to support your continued success beyond UCS.

UCS clients can access their personal health information through myHealthPointe (mHP) – a secure, easy-to-use online portal. This personal healthcare website allows you to conveniently manage aspects of your care anytime, anywhere.

With myHealthPointe, you can:

• Request appointments 
  
• Request medication refills
  
• Request medical records 
• View upcoming scheduled appointments 
• And more! 

To get started, contact us for your login information at (802) 442-5491 or email himteam@ucsvt.org. Once you receive your login information, you can download the app from the Google Play store (Android) or App Store (iPhone). You can always access the client portal from our website at ucsvt.org. 

The Client Portal link is in the upper right corner of our menu bar and can be accessed from any page: 

UCS is a tobacco and nicotine-free agency. Smoking and tobacco use are prohibited in and around all agency facilities, vehicles, and grounds. 

No weapons of any kind, including but not limited to firearms, explosives, knives, and projectiles, are allowed on UCS premises or vehicles. 

UCS is a drug- and alcohol-free workplace. 

UCS reserves the right to restrict access to care due to violation of any of the above safety standards. Rights and privileges may be regained through a negotiated process with your primary service provider or his/her supervisor. 

A person mandated to treatment may not revoke a consent given to them until there has been a formal and effective termination or revocation. This release allows for unrestricted communications.

Our agency has a plan called the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) that helps keep everyone safe during an emergency. While emergencies are rare, if one happens, our staff will calmly guide you through what to do and make sure you are safe and supported.

We ensure that the rights of all individuals are observed and consistent with state and federal laws, as well as the State System of Care Plan for the Department of Aging and Independent Living (DAIL), and the Department of Mental Health (DMH).

Individual’s Rights

We ensure that individuals are afforded the rights listed below:

• The right to be informed of their rights at intake and/or initial evaluation;

• The right to be treated with dignity and respect by all staff;

• The right to participate in decision-making regarding services, treatment plans, ongoing supports, and practices;

• The right to information that is needed to plan appropriate service and supports;

• The right to privacy consistent with applicable law, including HIPAA (Pub. L. No. 104-191, 110 Stat. 1936 (1996)), 42 CFR Part 2, and patient privacy requirements specific to the care of minors required by 18 V.S.A. §7103;

• The right to be informed of the limitations of privacy and confidentiality;

• The right to receive information about eligibility criteria, practitioner qualifications, practice guidelines, and available services and programs regardless of whether they are offered by the Agency;

• The right to receive treatment and services in the most integrated, least restrictive setting appropriate to their needs;

• The right to a comprehensive service plan that incorporates coordination with other relevant Agencies/systems if desired;

• The right to name who their natural supports are, and to name those natural supports they do not want participating in their supports;

• Individuals or their guardian have the right to create Advanced Directive(s) and have support to create them, if desired.

• Individuals or their guardian have the right to refuse or terminate services, providers, and/ or medication, except where required by court order.

• Individuals or their guardian have the right to voice complaints, grieve treatment and services, and/or appeal decisions made by an Agency without negative consequences.

• Individuals or their guardian have the right to all legal protection and due process for status as an outpatient and inpatient individual, both voluntary and involuntary, as defined under Vermont law.

In partnership with the Vermont Department of Health (DVH), Division of Substance Use Programs (DSU) we aim to create an accountable, comprehensive system of services and supports that empowers Vermonters to embrace resiliency, wellness, and recovery.

We ensure all persons served:

• The right to confidentiality of information;

• The right to privacy;

• The right to freedom from abuse, financial or other exploitation, retaliation, humiliation, and neglect;

• The right to access information pertinent to person served in a timely manner in order to facilitate their decision making, their record, their treatment plan, and participate in developing their own individualized treatment plan;

• The right to informed consent or refusal regarding service delivery, release of information, concurrent services, and involvement in human subject research projects, if applicable;

• The right to access or referral to self-help support services and advocacy support services;

• The right to adherence to human subject research guidelines and ethics when persons served are involved, if applicable;

• The right to investigation and resolution of alleged infringement of rights;

• Other legal rights.

Federal and state laws protect your confidential information. Protecting your confidentiality is Federal and state laws exist to protect your health information in any form and doing so is a priority for UCS. All employees understand the importance of maintaining privacy, security, and confidentiality standards and requirements, and are trained to preserve it.

Violations of laws, standards, and requirements of your rights and of UCS expectations may result in disciplinary action for staff. The primary laws UCS follow are the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules in addition to 42 CFR Part 2 which is the regulation that governs uses and disclosures of substance use information. Each of these Rules have exceptions that permit UCS to disclose in specific situations, a few examples are:

• to report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of children and vulnerable adults,

• to report crimes committed on UCS property,

• to report a missing person or to request a “well check” by police, and

• when there is reason to believe that a client makes a credible threat of harm to another individual.

With every exception to privacy rules, UCS will only disclose the minimum necessary to recipients so that they can perform their duties. For more information about uses and disclosures of your health information, please refer to the Notice of Privacy Practices.

The State of Vermont, through the Commissioner of the Department of Corrections (DOC), has exclusive authority to consent to medical treatment for children in the custody of the DOC. The following individuals have access to health care information about a minor in custody of the DOC:

• The Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, and Director of Correctional Services,

• DOC clinical directors and medical directors or their designees on an as-needed basis,

• External health care providers designated by the DOC, and

• Non-health care staff employed by the DOC have access as determined by DOC leadership.

The DOC through Probation and Parole and other community partners may enforce court orders of non-hospitalization or when treatment is a condition of parole. In these situations, your health information may be shared without your consent with parties involved in your mandated treatment. Any treatment recommendations made by Probation and Parole or other non-health care community partners will be kept private and confidential unless you explicitly give UCS permission to share your treatment information.

Anyone receiving or participating in services and/or programs will be oriented in, and receive a copy of, the Agency’s Grievance & Appeal policy and procedure upon enrollment in a program.

A grievance may be expressed orally or in writing. A client or designated representative (i.e., a person receiving services, their family member, or other person acting on their behalf) may file a grievance at any time. Staff members will assist a client if the client or their representative requests such assistance, which includes but is not limited to, auxiliary aids and services upon request, such as providing interpreter services and toll free numbers that have TTY/TDD and interpreter capability. Clients or their representatives do not have to request a written response from the agency for their concern to be addressed as a formal grievance.

Clients may grieve a matter that is not an adverse benefit determination, including denial of a request for an expedited appeal, an extension of time by UCS for decision of a service authorization or resolving an internal appeal, quality of care or services provided, aspects of interpersonal relationships such as rudeness of a provider or employee, and the failure to respect a client’s rights.

UCS will not require that grievances be put in writing before considering them formal grievances. The agency will make forms available for this purpose, but the client or their representative is not required to complete the form. Agency staff members will assist a client if they or their representative requests assistance in filing a grievance. UCS will train staff in the practices and procedures to promote prompt informal and formal resolution of disagreements.

A person receiving services, their family member, or other person acting on their behalf, having a grievance or appeal shall be offered a Grievance and Appeal Form to complete and/or an opportunity to explain the grievance or appeal to the person’s primary UCS therapist, case manager or service provider, who will assist with, or complete, the Grievance and Appeal Form. The primary therapist/case manager/service provider shall report the grievance or appeal to the UCS Grievance and Appeals Coordinator, either directly or through the related Division Director, using the Grievance and Appeal Form. The original form will be forwarded to the Grievance and Appeal Coordinator. The Division Director will work with the Grievance and Appeal Coordinator to review/investigate all grievances and appeals from the initial filing through resolution.

UCS shall provide the client, free of charge, all the information in its possession or control relevant to the grievance process and the subjects of the grievance, including the client’s case record, medical records, and other records and documents related to the grievance, and other information relevant to the client’s grievance including relevant policies and procedures.

Grievance Procedure
Notices of full state procedures can be found in the Grievance and Appeal Manuals published by: The Vermont Department of Mental Health (DMH) for mental health programs; Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living (DAIL) for developmental services, and Division of Substance Use (DSU) for substance use programs. The UCS Grievance and Appeals Coordinator will provide copies of state procedures upon request.

If you believe you have been denied access to a benefit, service, program, or activity offered by UCS because of a disability, you may file a complaint with:

Grievance and Appeals Coordinator United Counseling Service
100 Ledge Hill Drive
P.O. Box 588 Bennington, VT 05201
(802) 442-5491

Filing of Appeals: Clients may file appeals orally or in writing for any adverse benefit determination. There is no right to appeal matters where a federal or state law requiring change has adversely affected some or all clients. Providers and representatives of the client may initiate appeals only after a clear determination that the third party’s involvement is being initiated at the client’s request except that providers may not request the services be continued pending appeal.

Appeals of adverse benefit determination must be filed with UCS within sixty (60) days of the date the agency’s notice of adverse benefit determination. The parties to an internal appeal are the beneficiary or their representative, or the legal representative of a deceased beneficiary’s estate. UCS will give clients reasonable assistance in completing forms or other steps to initiate and participate in the internal appeals process. Assistance auxiliary aids and services upon request as also noted above. Clients may also contact the Office of Health Care Advocate at 1-800-917-7787 for help with this process or decision-making about the process.

Written acknowledgement of the appeal shall be mailed within five (5) days of receipt of appeal by the agency.

Withdrawal of Appeals may be done orally or in writing at any time by clients or their representatives.

Client Participation in Appeals: The client, their authorized representative, or their provider, if requested by the provider, has the right to participate in person, by phone, or in writing in the meeting in which UCS is considering the issue that is the subject of the appeal. This may include the right to present evidence, testimony and legal arguments. Upon request and prior to the appeal meeting, the agency shall provide timely copies of information relevant to the appeals process and the subject of the appeal, at no cost to the client. UCS shall inform the client of the scheduled appeal meeting and reschedule to accommodate individuals wishing to participate. If a meeting cannot be scheduled within the timeframe for resolving the appeal, the agency may make a decision that resolves the appeal without a meeting with the client or their representatives.

Appeals Reviewer: The UCS staff member responsible for hearing the appeal shall not have been involved in any previous level of review or decision-making, not be a subordinate of any such individual, and shall have appropriate clinical expertise of member conditions or illness when deciding an appeal of a denial of medical necessity.

Resolution: UCS shall act promptly and in good faith to obtain necessary information to resolve the appeal. The internal review shall be completed, appeals shall be decided, and written notice sent to the member within thirty (30) days of receipt of the appeal. The individual/representative or UCS may request an extension of up to 14 days if that extra time is in the best interests of the individual. The maximum total time period for the resolution of an appeals, including any extension requested either by the member or the Medicaid Program, is 44 days. If a meeting cannot be scheduled within these timeframes, a decision will be rendered by the Medicaid Program without a meeting with the member, the designated representative, or treating provider.

Expedited Internal Appeals Request: Expedited appeals may be requested in emergent situations in which the member or the treating provider (in making the request on the member’s behalf or supporting the member’s request) indicates that taking the time for a standard resolution could seriously jeopardize the member’s life or health or ability to attain, maintain, or regain maximum function. Requests for expedited internal appeals may be made orally or in writing with the Medicaid Program for any adverse benefit determination subject to appeal. No punitive action may be made against a provider who requests or supports an expedited resolution.

If the request for an expedited appeal is denied because it does not meet the criteria, the Medicaid Program will inform the member that the request does not meet the criteria for expedited resolution and that the appeal will be processed within the standard 30-day time frame. An oral notice of the denial of the request for an expedited appeal must be promptly communicated (within 2 days) to the member and followed up within 2 days of the oral notification with a written notice.

If the expedited appeal request meets the criteria for such appeals, it must be resolved within 72 hours. If an expedited appeal cannot be resolved within 72 hours, the time frame may be extended up to an additional 14 days by request of the member, or by the Medicaid Program if the extension is in the best interest of the member. If the extension is at the request of the Medicaid Program, it must give the member written notice of the reason for the delay. An oral notice of the expedited appeal decision must be promptly communicated (within 2 days) to the member and followed up within 2 days of the oral notification with a written notice. The written notice for any expedited appeal determination shall include a brief summary of the appeal, the resolution, the basis for the resolution, and the member’s right to request a fair hearing if not already requested.

Finally, clients shall be advised of their right to representation or the assistance of an advocate at any stage of the grievance and appeal procedure. They will also be assured of the confidentiality of the proceedings and that no retribution of any kind will result from filing a grievance or an appeal.

Fair Hearing: This is a process whereby the individual or their representative making an appeal and UCS, working with DMH and the DMH Legal Unit, each presents their side of the situation to the Human Services Board. A request for fair hearing by the Human Services Board (HSB) must be filed no later than 30 days after receipt of the adverse appeal decision or within 90 days of the original action.

Complaint Procedures of Other State or Federal Programs: Additional processes shall be followed as outlined by state or federal bodies not specified in this policy but whose regulations require a specific complaint procedure. When applicable to a UCS program, such details will be included in the division Operations Manual; an example being the Civil Rights Requirements in Child Nutrition Programs as governed by the Vermont Agency of Education and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Client Satisfaction
UCS seeks input from clients regarding their progress and satisfaction with services. You may be asked to fill out a satisfaction survey at an office visit or when you have completed treatment. You are also encouraged to talk, first and foremost, with your primary service provider regarding any ideas you may have that would be helpful to you or would improve the overall performance of UCS.

Ethical and Professional Behavior
UCS respects the dignity of each individual served and will assist in promoting the full development of each individual’s potential. All employees are required to conduct themselves in an ethical and professional manner and adhere to a comprehensive code of ethics. You may receive a copy of the Standard of Ethical and Professional Behavior upon request.

• Vermont Care Partners
• Champlain Community Services
• Clara Martin Center
• The Counseling Service of Addison County, Inc.
• Families First
• Green Mountain Support Services
• Health Care and Rehabilitation Services
• Howard Center
• Lamoille County Mental Health Services
• Lincoln Street
• NFI Vermont, Inc.
• Northeast Kingdom Human Services
• Northwestern Counseling and Support Services
• Rutland Mental Health Services
• Upper Valley Services
• Washington County Mental Health Services, Inc.

Gross Family Income

Sliding Fee Scale

As an employee, intern, volunteer, or contractor of UNITED COMMUNITY SERVICES, INC. (“UCS”), its subsidiary or affiliate, I believe in the dignity of each client and commit myself to increasing each client’s level of independence. As a professional, I will assist in promoting the full development of each client’s potential. As a condition of continued employment, I understand and agree that I, as well as all employees and other individuals providing services on behalf of UCS, am required to conduct myself in an ethical and professional manner at all times. Should I be uncertain as to the interpretation of these standards, I will seek advice from my immediate supervisor, division director, corporate compliance officer, or the director of Human Resources.

I. GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

A. I will facilitate services that effectively meet the individual needs of our clients. I will seek required guidance and assistance from staff and others to ensure the highest quality of service delivery and to resolve any problem that may impair my performance.

B. I will promote a respectful and therapeutic atmosphere, demonstrating through my actions and involvement, my unique skills to assist client with a healthy adjustment to life.

C. I will always maintain professional objectivity and self-discipline so that each client’s needs remain my primary focus.

D. I am aware of the sensitivity of my work, its social impact, and the need to continually maintain appropriate boundaries both during and following my employment at UCS. I will make every effort to avoid relationships that could impair my professional judgment or impact the trust of the public or my colleagues. Developing relationships of a personal nature with open UCS clients is not appropriate or permitted. Communicating with clients on personal social media platforms should be prevented and avoided as it violates such professional boundaries. In cases where I have an existing personal relationship with someone who becomes a client in my program or Division, I will inform and seek guidance from my supervisor. Relationships with client family members are also not appropriate and there are risks in blurring the boundaries of your professional relationship.

E. I will continually offer and participate in professional training, as is appropriate to my profession and position with UCS, understanding that I have an obligation to remain proficient and competent in the delivery of my professional services.

F. I will not discriminate against or refuse professional services to anyone on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital/civil union, national origin, citizenship, place of birth, ancestry, military/uniformed services or veteran status, disability, genetic information, having a positive test result on an HIV related blood test or other legally protected classification.

G. I will not participate in or condone any form of harassment or discrimination. Should I witness or find myself as a bystander to any form of harassment or discrimination by another employee or individual performing services on behalf of UCS, I will promptly notify my supervisor, the Director of Human Resources, or the Executive Director. I will actively seek to promote respectful communication in my role, as a colleague or as a bystander.
H. I will not assume professional responsibility for clients served by a colleague without appropriate consultation with that colleague except in cases of clinical emergency and when consultation is not indicated or available.

I. I will, should I be called upon to supervise other employees, evaluate their performance in a responsible, fair, considerate, and equitable manner.

J. I will be sensitive and aware of cultural, ethnic and gender diversity and respect the individuality provided by the differences among us.

K. I will complete all documentation, including but not limited to, client records, billing records, and timesheets in an accurate, timely and complete manner. Furthermore, I will not knowingly permit others to falsely submit records and, if I obtain such knowledge, I will notify the UCS Compliance Officer.

L. I will engage in safe work practices and promote health and safety in the workplace and will comply with all UCS policies, rules, and regulations pertaining to health and safety.

M. I have reviewed and will comply with the UCS Personnel Policies and Procedures, in particular the policy on Professional Conduct found at Section IV Division H and Section IX related to Health Safety and Security requirements.

N. I have reviewed and will comply with my Division’s Operations Manual.

II. ADVOCACY OF RIGHTS OF CLIENT

A. I will work to ensure that the legal rights of each client are not violated or denied in any way. I will act in accordance with standards of professional integrity, including any ethical requirements related to any professional licensure or certification that I hold.

B. I am dedicated to the development of each client’s independence and inclusion in the community.

C. I will do my best to ensure that co-workers, fellow professionals, and UCS respect the rights of the client.

D. I will do my best to ensure all clients’ rights to privacy, including those rights presented in UCS’s Notice of Privacy Practices are followed. I will report any violations to the Compliance Officer, the Privacy Officer, the Security Officer or report using the UCS compliance hotline.

E. I will provide assistance to a client wishing to register a complaint, grievance and/or appeal relating to the quality or quantity of services and will ensure that no retaliation occurs against that client for doing so.

F. I have reviewed and will comply with both the UCS Bill of Rights for Clients and the UCS Personnel Policies and Procedures, in particular Section VIII related to Administration and Section X related to Compliance requirements, relating but not limited to the privacy rights of clients.

III. ETHICS

A. I will, when disseminating or sharing non-client information, acknowledge and reference any sources of published information.

B. I will not place myself in a position where I am under obligation to any person who might benefit from special considerations or favors. I will not seek in any way to gain special treatment from other clients which could compromise UCS. This includes other health care providers, outside vendors, community members, and any other business-based relationships.

C. I will avoid giving or receiving gifts or entertainment if there is likelihood that they may be intended to improperly influence my judgment in dealing with or for UCS, and/or if it presents a real or perceived conflict of interest or boundary violation. The term gift, as used here, includes, but is not limited to, cash, goods, entertainment, services, loans, trips, or the use of property. I will notify my manager of any gifts offered to or received by me.

D. I will make no payment, gift or favor to any person in a position of trust in order to violate their duty or to obtain favorable treatment in negotiations or the award of contracts.

E. I will avoid any situation or action that may create or appear to create a conflict of interest with clients, staff, vendors or the community in general.

F. I will, upon termination of my employment for any reason whatsoever, immediately return to UCS all property, inventions, writings, files, memoranda and documents, electronic or otherwise, that are in my possession or are under my control as a result of my employment with UCS. I will also remove work related content from my personal telecommunication and/or other electronic devices.

G. I realize that any violation of ethical or legal standards will damage relationships and tarnish the reputation of UCS. As such, I will adhere to all such standards and will encourage and support my fellow employees to do likewise. Should I have a question about a conflict of interest or become aware of any violation of ethical or legal standards, I will immediately seek guidance for my question or report the violation to the UCS Compliance Officer.

H. I understand that professional boards and accrediting bodies have ethical practice standards for which I may also be accountable. I will strive to abide by the standards of and maintain good standing with these organizations during my employment at UCS, particularly knowing that my actions may impact UCS clients and/or the agency as a whole.

IV. RESPONSIBILITY TOWARD ORGANIZATION

A. I recognize the necessity of adhering to the policies, procedures, and ethical standards of UCS and agree and commit to do so. Towards that end, I have reviewed and agree to comply with the UCS Personnel Policies and Procedures, particularly those set out in Section VIII Administration, Section IX Health Safety and Security, Section X Compliance, Section XI Management Information Systems and the Social Media Policy.

B. I have the responsibility to promote the most positive reputation possible through our relationships with individuals and the community. In this regard, I understand that spreading rumors, gossiping, or making disparaging comments about UCS, its employees, and clients does not advance the reputation of UCS.

C. I will accurately represent myself (education, license/certification, training, experience, and competencies), treatment techniques and the mental health and developmental service professions at all times. Should others misrepresent my credentials, qualifications or other information about me, I will take immediate and appropriate action to have this misrepresentation corrected.

D. I will represent UCS and the services it provides in a straightforward and honest manner.

E. I understand and agree that all ideas, inventions, discoveries and improvements whether written, drawn, photographed, recorded or otherwise produced, whether or not capable of being patented, trademarked or copyrighted, made, devised or discovered in connection with my employment and the services that I render are the sole property of United Community Services.

F. I will not utilize UCS resources for non-UCS purposes or transact other than UCS business during working hours.

G. I will not participate in any lobbying efforts during working hours unless I receive specific permission to do so from the UCS Executive Director.

H. I understand that I am not to make any political contributions on behalf of UCS. Any political contributions that I do make are strictly made on a personal level.

I. I will act in an ethical and professional manner when representing UCS regardless of circumstances.

J. I will maintain a respectful relationship with all co-workers, support their efforts to reach their full potential as a professional, and promote a healthy and collaborative working environment.

K. I will strive to maintain professional behavior and demeanor in all situations. If my behavior is other than professional, I will remove myself from the situation if possible, or will respond cooperatively if I need to be removed from the situation.

L. I have reviewed and will comply with my Division’s Operations Manual.

M. I have reviewed and will comply with the UCS Information Technology (IT) Guidelines and understand that they define the boundaries of “acceptable use” of electronic resources inclusive of but not limited to social media, electronic communications, matters pertaining to privacy and security, system access and overall best practice.

N. I will strive to uphold the standards associated with Centers of Excellence that promote UCS as a “great place to work and great place to get care.”

O. I will uphold the agency’s “I CARE” customer services values and hold my colleagues accountable to that same standard.

V. CONFIDENTIALITY

A. I will abide by all federal and state laws, as well as UCS rules and regulations regarding confidentiality. I understand that I am prohibited from releasing or revealing any information, electronic, written or oral, about clients without their or their guardian’s expressed written authorization. I understand that these rules and regulations, as described in the UCS “Notice of Privacy Practices”, and/or the agency’s policies and procedures regarding confidentiality and release of information, apply to all programs and activities including, but not limited to, treatment, training, rehabilitation, administration, education, and finance. Records and information covered by confidentiality rules and regulations include, but are not limited to, client’s identification and status records and information, diagnostic records and information, prognostic records and information, treatment, training, and rehabilitation records and information, attendance records and information, and payer and fee records and information.

B. I understand that there are certain instances where information may be disclosed without the authorization of the client. I have reviewed and will comply with Section X, Division N of the UCS Personnel Policies and Procedures which sets out requirements related to the Disclosure of Protected Health Information to Others Involved in an Individual’s Care. If I am required to disclose information I will do so in a respectful manner adhering to the client’s legal and human rights and will follow all UCS policies and procedures relating to the release of information, including those set out in Section VIII Administration and Section X Compliance of the UCS Personnel Policies and Procedures. Instances where I may be required to share information are as follows:

1. When there is a bona fide medical emergency, information may be given to medical personnel.
2. When disclosure will prevent or lessen a serious and imminent threat to the health or safety of a person or the public; such as a “duty to warn”.
3. When authorized by a court order, information may be released. Such an order would release the disclosure prohibitions but could not, of its own force, require disclosure.
4. When communication of information does not constitute disclosure, i.e.:
Those that do not identify the client in any way;Those within UCS that are between staff having a need for such information in connection with their duties or in the case of an emergency;

• Those that do not identify the client in any way;
• Those within UCS that are between staff having a need for such information in connection with their duties or in the case of an emergency;
• Those between a program and a qualified service organization. A “qualified service organization” is a person or organization that provides services to a program such as data processing, bill collecting, laboratory analysis, or legal, medical, accounting, or other professional services, or services to prevent or treat child abuse or neglect, including training on nutrition and child care and individual group therapy. (42 CFR Part 2) To be qualified as a “qualified service organization” it must agree by signing a “Business Associate Agreement” and be bound by these regulations.

C. I will follow UCS policies and procedures when storing or disposing records or other information about clients.

D. I will refer all media inquiries and other inquiries of a general nature to the Executive Director or his or her designee. The Executive Director must approve all press releases, publications, speeches, or other official declarations by designated personnel in advance.

E. I will refer inquiries seeking information concerning applicants for employment, current employees, or former employees to the Director of Human Resources, who will identify the reason for the inquiry prior to releasing any information. This includes all requests for references. I have reviewed and will comply with Section VII Division D References of the UCS Personnel Policies and Procedures.

F. I understand that my responsibility for maintaining confidentiality is not limited to clients but also includes colleagues and any proprietary information pertaining to UCS.

G. I will ensure that all of my communication, whether verbal or written, will be conducted in an appropriate and discreet manner thereby ensuring that information and identification regarding clients is protected.

H. I will not use or disclose to anyone not affiliated with United Community Services or its affiliates or subsidiaries any confidential or unpublished information that I may obtain as a result of my employment.

I. I will abide by all confidentiality and privacy laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures both during my employment with UCS and for all time following termination of my employment with UCS.

VI. DISTRIBUTION AND ENFORCEMENT

A. I understand that should I become aware of or suspect a violation of this Standard of Ethical and Professional Behavior that it is my responsibility to report the matter promptly to my Division Director or to the Director of Human Resources.

B. I understand that if I am the initial point of contact for a client, it is my responsibility to advise on any standards of professional conduct as required by my program or credentialed profession as applicable.

C. I understand that on an annual basis I will be required to confirm my compliance and understanding of this standard, inclusive of HIPAA privacy regulations.

D. I understand that the Director of Human Resources may present any significant suspected violations to the Peer Review Committee. The Peer Review Committee, comprised of the Executive Director, the Medical Director, the Director of Human Resources, and a Division Director (from an area not involved with the suspected violation) and the Chairperson of the Incident Risk and Review Committee, will assess compliance and issue recommendations to the Human Resources department for final action. Violations of this code may be cause for prompt and appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination and possible legal action.

E. I understand that the Peer Review Committee will provide a forum to review various issues relating to ethical practices to assist in determining the appropriate response to issues arising through the interaction with the community and UCS’ employees.

F. I understand that this standard applies to United Community Services, its subsidiaries and affiliates. It may be appropriate that any division adapt this code to meet their specific needs. Any adaptation will be in conjunction with this standard. In such circumstances, it would be the duty of the appropriate Division Director to alert the executive director and the Director of Human Resources of such special circumstances.

G. I will, if uncertain as to the interpretation of this Standard of Ethical and Professional Behavior, seek advice from my immediate supervisor, Division Director, or the Director of Human Resources