To determine whether a request for client-level information is eligible, what should you do first?

To determine whether a request for client-level information is eligible, what should you do first?

• A. Share the information if asked.
• B. Review the Privacy & Security Plan to determine if the request falls within eligible reasons to provide client-level information.
• C. Refuse all requests.
• D. Notify the client before answering.

Answer: (B)

Determining whether a request for client-level information is eligible starts with reviewing the Privacy & Security Plan to see if the request fits one of the allowed reasons for disclosure. That plan outlines who may access information, under what circumstances, and the safeguards required, so checking it first ensures you’re aligning with policy before considering releasing any data. If the request matches an eligible reason—such as a permitted agency request or client consent—you can proceed with the appropriate verification and release steps. If it doesn’t, the request isn’t eligible and should be denied or handled according to the plan. Sharing information simply because it’s requested, or refusing all requests, isn’t correct because eligibility depends on the plan’s defined allowances and procedures. Notifying the client before answering isn’t the determining step for eligibility, though client notification may be required as part of the release process in some cases.

Determining whether a request for client-level information is eligible starts with reviewing the Privacy & Security Plan to see if the request fits one of the allowed reasons for disclosure. That plan outlines who may access information, under what circumstances, and the safeguards required, so checking it first ensures you’re aligning with policy before considering releasing any data. If the request matches an eligible reason—such as a permitted agency request or client consent—you can proceed with the appropriate verification and release steps. If it doesn’t, the request isn’t eligible and should be denied or handled according to the plan.

Sharing information simply because it’s requested, or refusing all requests, isn’t correct because eligibility depends on the plan’s defined allowances and procedures. Notifying the client before answering isn’t the determining step for eligibility, though client notification may be required as part of the release process in some cases.