Privacy and confidentiality in palliative care

Healthcare professionals looking after patients at the end of life are often given access to sensitive personal information about patients and their families, including their social situation. Before divulging sensitive information, individual team members may need to check with the patient or family if such information can be shared. They should also consider whether it is in the patient’s interest to reveal such information, and whether disclosure is necessary for effective clinical work or for the safety of the patient, family, carer or healthcare professional. Medical information provided to a substitute decision-maker should be limited to that needed to make an informed decision about the proposed action.

If there is any doubt about divulging sensitive information, it can be helpful to discuss the matter confidentially with a trusted senior colleague or supervisor.