How should CHWs handle patient information to protect privacy?

• A. Share information with as many people as possible to ensure transparency.
• B. Reveal all health data publicly to promote awareness.
• C. Ignore consent if the client is non-responsive.
• D. Follow confidentiality rules, share information only with authorized individuals, obtain consent, and store data securely; comply with HIPAA or local privacy laws.

Answer: (D)

Protecting patient privacy means handling information so that confidentiality is maintained, access is limited to people who need it, and data are stored securely in line with HIPAA or local privacy laws. This approach is best because it directly safeguards the patient’s rights and safety, builds trust, and keeps the CHW and the program compliant with legal and ethical standards. When information is shared only with authorized individuals and with the patient’s consent when required, the patient can participate openly in care without fear of unnecessary disclosure. Securing records—using locked files, strong passwords, encryption for digital data, and secure transmission methods—minimizes the risk of data breaches that could cause real harm. In practice, share only what’s needed for care, verify who is allowed to know, obtain consent for sharing beyond the immediate team, and follow established procedures for privacy breaches.

There are situations where disclosure is not voluntary and is required by law or policy, but those are handled through specific, authorized channels. Broad or public sharing, or ignoring consent, undermines trust and violates patient rights, which is why the privacy-first approach is the correct standard.