Confidentiality

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Your privacy with respect to the information you disclose during participation in this study will be protected within the limits of the law. However, there are circumstances
where a disclosure is required by law to reveal information, usually for the protection of a patient, research participant, or others. A report to the police department or to the appropriate protective agency is required in the following cases:

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1. if, in the judgment of the principle investigator, a patient or research participant becomes dangerous to himself or herself or others (or their property), and revealing the information is necessary to prevent the danger;

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2. if there is suspected child abuse, in other words if a child under 16 has been a victim of a crime or neglect;

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3. if there is suspected elder abuse, in other words if a woman or man age 60 or older has been victim of a crime or neglect.

If a report is required, the principle investigator should discuss its contents and possible consequences with the patient or research participant.