1. Confidentiality

2. What is Confidentiality?
The protection of personal information.
It is a professional responsibility to secure the personal information of clients.
Not protecting personal information can result in misuse of information, such as identity theft, as well as disciplinary action or loss of employment.
Confidential Information may include but is not limited to:
Personal Information
Family History
Financial Information
Medical/Mental Health Information

3. Limits of Confidentiality
Imminent harm – the person is danger to themselves & threatens to hurt themselves, threatens to harm a specific person.
Incidents of abuse- when you witness abuse or abuse is reported to you.
Release of Information- a document signed by the participant/person served that identifies what kind of information can be shared and with whom it can be shared.

4. To Ensure Confidentiality
Only share confidential information on a need to know basis
Lock computers when left unattended.
Keep file cabinets locked.
The individual and guardian have a right to have personal information kept absolutely confidential both outside of the organization and within.
Never discuss any part of a person’s record with any person outside of the organization unless you have written authorization that is approved by the individual or guardian.
Never share any part of a person’s record with anyone or in front of anyone as a topic of ridicule or disrespect.
Password protect computers, mobile devices, etc.

5. Policies
Confidentiality policies and procedures will vary across different organizations.
Review the following policies:
DHS Confidentiality
Shangri-La Confidentiality