Privacy and Confidentiality Copy
Maintaining a client’s confidentiality is, of course, essential in order to establish the trust needed for an ongoing working relationship. However, sometimes issues of privacy and confidentiality are raised as the reason for why the family can not be engaged and involved in assessment and treatment. Clients and families may also have concerns about who will have access to any information they share with you. These concerns may limit the extent of information provided and the degree to which the client is willing to have the family involved. The setting of clear boundaries on information sharing at the very outset can help to overcome concerns that the client and family have about their confidentiality. The issues of maintaining confidentiality are not unique to early psychosis clients; they are the same issues encountered with other client populations. However, because involvement of family and other social supports is so important in early psychosis, confidentiality issues may more frequently appear as a barrier to providing optimal care. Being well versed in the relevant legislation and guidelines will help the clinician to make informed decisions regarding issues of privacy and confidentiality.
For a refresher on privacy and confidentiality legislation and guidelines click here.
Activity 3: Crossword Puzzle
