Does informed consent apply to sharing information within the service provider organization?

Informed consent is a foundational component of ethical practice in the field of direct support and healthcare. It involves ensuring that individuals understand what they are consenting to regarding their personal information and services.

While it is true that informed consent primarily applies to situations involving sharing information outside of the organization, there are nuanced exceptions. Within an organization, informed consent is typically governed by the organization's internal policies and procedures. However, sharing information internally can still require consent, especially if it involves sensitive or private matters.

The misconception in the assertion that informed consent does not apply at all within the organization overlooks that certain principles of confidentiality and individual rights still hold, including the need for appropriate disclosures among staff who are part of an individual's support plan.

Overall, understanding the dynamics of informed consent helps ensure that individuals receiving support maintain control over their information and understand how and when it is shared—both internally and externally.