N.Y. Mental Hyg. Law § 31.09

§ 31.09 Powers of the department regarding investigation and inspection.\n (a) In conducting an investigation or inspection, the commissioner or\nhis authorized representative shall have the power to inspect\nfacilities, examine records, conduct examinations and interviews, and\nobtain such other information as may be required in order to carry out\nhis responsibilities under this article.\n (b) All investigations and inspections of clinical records shall be\nmade by persons competent to conduct such investigations and\ninspections. Information obtained by the commisioner from the records\nof patients receiving services shall be kept confidential in accordance\nwith the provisions of this chapter.\n