Do Background Checks Find Psychiatric History?

A background check is a search for information typically done by employers, landlords, or other individuals who want to ensure trustworthiness. Background checks may include research into a number of past endeavors, including criminal or financial history.

General Guidelines

• Psychiatric records and other medical history are considered by law to be privileged information between a doctor and patient. For this reason, the average background check that precedes an apartment rental or an employee hire will not result in the inquirer seeing psychiatric history.

Exceptions

• If you authorize the release of your medical or psychiatric health records, a background check may then include them. The individual conducting the background check will also have access to the results of any psychiatric tests she asks you to take.

Warning

• If you are not sure whether the background check to which you will be subject falls under an exception to privileged information, take the initiative to find the information regarding your rights out on your own --do not expect the person conducting the check to inform you.