Which practice best protects patient privacy when sharing information with authorized individuals?

• A. Share with family members without consent
• B. Discuss only with the patient and authorized personnel
• C. Post patient data on social media
• D. Digitally copy and email to anyone who requests

Answer: (B)

Protecting patient privacy means sharing information only with people who are authorized to see it and who need it to provide care. The best practice is to discuss patient information solely with the patient and with authorized personnel involved in the patient’s care. This keeps disclosures to the minimum necessary and respects the patient’s right to control their health information. Sharing with family without consent, posting data on social media, or emailing information to anyone who requests it would expose sensitive details to unintended audiences and violate confidentiality. Limiting access to the patient and the authorized care team maintains trust and complies with privacy standards.