Needed time to resolve and clarify the goal conflict again, delay to receiving the records was influenced by the complexity of a MN hospital not being able to release medical records immediately regarding a non-related child without a court order. The hospitals interpretation of statute governing Child Protection Investigation data was not broad enough to release data for another non-related child's injuries, including MN Statute 626.556 Sub. 10 (i) 3 & Statutes 13.384 and 144.291 to 144.298, and other relevant data privacy laws like HIPAA. The hospital was not able to make recommendations for what contact/visitation between the non-custodial biological father and the child, as the information in their records was protected.
WI's interpretation of data privacy also contributed to staff not being able to readily receive records. A difficulty exists in accessing information about non-custodial parents due to limitations defined in various legislative statutes and data privacy laws. The limitations impact child welfare practice, specifically in CP investigations when the delay in receiving records is not aligned with the urgency information is needed during an investigation to ensure safety of children.