How should confidential information about clients be handled and when may information be released without a consent?

• A. When mandated by law, such as mandatory reporting or subpoena.
• B. To any staff member who asks.
• C. For marketing purposes.
• D. Never release.

Answer: (C)

Confidential client information should be protected and only shared with people who need to know it to support the client’s care. The key rule is to disclose without consent only when there is a legal obligation or permission to do so. This includes situations like mandatory reporting of abuse or neglect and when a court or subpoena requires release. In all other cases, obtain the client’s informed consent before sharing information, and keep disclosures to the minimum necessary to accomplish the purpose. Marketing or sharing information just because someone asks for it is not appropriate. If a disclosure occurs under a legal obligation, document the reason, what was shared, and with whom.