What information is protected by confidentiality in peer support, and when can it be legally shared?

• A. All client information can be shared freely to colleagues.
• B. Only financial information is protected.
• C. Personal health information is protected; disclosure is allowed with client consent, for safety concerns, mandated reporting, or as required by law.
• D. Confidentiality applies only to medical records.

Answer: (C)

Confidentiality in peer support means protecting the personal health information a client shares, including details about health, mental health, treatment, and other identifying information discussed in sessions. This information can be shared only under specific, lawful circumstances: with the client’s consent; to address safety concerns if there’s imminent risk to the client or others; when there is a mandated reporting obligation (for example, abuse or neglect); or when required by law. In practice, only the minimum information needed is shared and only with those who need to know, following these protections.

This is why the option stating that all client information can be freely shared is not correct—the default is privacy and limits on disclosure. It’s broader than just financial information, so focusing only on finances misses what confidentiality actually protects. And confidentiality isn’t limited to medical records alone; it covers personal health information and related disclosures within the peer support relationship.