Conflicts about sharing information can be a source of concern – getting the balance between the service user’s right to privacy and the carer’s need for information. Respecting the confidentiality of the service user is an important part of the trust between the person and their health care professionals. However, there are times when family and friends may wish to know as much as possible to help and support their loved one and to keep them safe.
Everyone has the right to keep certain information private. All too often however, the interpretation of this right in healthcare systems blocks information that is not sensitive being shared with close relatives or friends. For example, a mental health professional can share general information about a particular disorder such as depression, and what helps someone who is depressed to feel better, without breaking confidentiality rules.
Useful Resources
Carers Trust
carers.org
Carers Trust is a major charity for, with and about carers.
The Triangle of Care is a Carers Trust initiative – developed by carers and staff to improve partnership working between service users and their carers and healthcare providers.
It offers a membership scheme to help mental health trusts to ensure the triangle of care standards are achieved. One important standard is number 3: ‘Policy and practice protocols re: confidentiality and sharing information.’
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