Quick Issue Overview — Dental offices that are covered by HIPAA must update, by February 16, 2026, their HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices (NPP) to address the use and disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI) received from a Part 2 substance use disorder (SUD) treatment program. Read ADA News Article.

ADA Resources to Help Members

• Dental Practice Checklist: Includes what dental practices need to do before February 16. 
• Sample Notice of Privacy Practices: Available in English and in Spanish, requires ADA member login to access. Revised to include information about the confidentiality of patient information from a Part 2 substance abuse treatment program.

4 Things Members Need to Do Before February 16

1. Update the Notice of Privacy Practices, using the ADA sample.
2. Make the NPP available: A) On request; B) Post it in a prominent location; C) Post it on the practice website; D) On or before patient's first appointment.
3. Train staff to be aware of the updated NPP that reflects 2026 updates regarding SUD information. Update policies and procedures regarding Part 2 records.
4. Retain HIPAA compliance documentation for 6 years.

More Background on Issue — The ADA updated its sample HIPAA NPP to reflect new federal requirements regarding the use and disclosure of certain substance use disorder treatment information. Beginning February 16, HIPAA-covered practices must include information in their NPP describing how substance use disorder records protected under title 42 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 2 may be used and disclosed. The new federal requirements are the result of a final rule modifying the Part 2 rules published February 16, 2024. The updated sample NPP is intended to help dental practices meet their legal obligations while clearly communicating patients’ privacy rights.    

Quick Links

• Read Q&A about Part 2 Changes
• Download ADA Dental Practice Checklist
• Download ADA Sample Notice of Privacy Practices (Members Only)
• For questions, email Dr. Diane Metrick, Senior Manager, ADA Center for Dental Practice