What best describes the confidentiality boundary in CHW practice?

• A. The limit of what information can be shared and with whom.
• B. The boundary that never allows sharing.
• C. A rule that applies only to financial data.
• D. The limit of how to access client data within the clinic.

Answer: (A)

Confidentiality boundary describes the limit of what information can be shared and with whom. In CHW practice, protecting client privacy is essential for trust and effective care. You share only what is necessary to address the client's needs, and you do so with the client’s consent whenever possible, following the minimum necessary standard.

There are times when sharing is required or allowed without consent, such as reporting abuse or imminent danger, or when laws require it. Even then, you share only the information needed and with people who have a legitimate need to know, avoiding disclosure of unrelated details and avoiding public or casual sharing. This boundary focuses on both the content of what you disclose and the people who are allowed to receive it.