Which statement best reflects consent for sharing case information?

• A. Never obtain consent before sharing any information.
• B. Obtain consent where required to share information.
• C. Always share information with all involved parties regardless of consent.
• D. Document consent only after sharing information.

Answer: (B)

Sharing case information must be done with permission, unless a legal exception applies. The best choice reflects that you obtain consent where it’s required before disclosing confidential information. In practice, this means you secure informed, specific consent from the appropriate person (such as the client or guardian, or as allowed by law) before sharing details with other professionals, agencies, or individuals not directly involved in the service. The consent should spell out what is being shared, with whom, for what purpose, and for how long, and you should document it in the case file. If the client withdraws consent, or if there’s no consent and no applicable exception, you should refrain from sharing. Keep in mind there are legitimate exceptions where disclosure is allowed or required without consent (for example, mandated reporting or imminent safety concerns) and you must follow those legal requirements.