Confidentiality Release - what is it important for?
Key findings
The duty of confidentiality is central to the relationship of trust in professions such as doctors or lawyers. A release usually takes place when other interests prevail, such as in legal disputes. The written release clarifies who is allowed to know what and why. Data protection plays an important role here, as only certain, agreed information may be shared. Both parties should be aware of their responsibility under data protection law. This ensures that privacy is protected.
A confidentiality release is more than just a signed form - it’s the cornerstone of trust between professionals and their clients or patients. Whether you’re a physician safeguarding patient health records, a lawyer protecting attorney-client communications, or a therapist preserving session notes, understanding when and how to lawfully share sensitive information is essential. In this article, we’ll explore the duty of confidentiality, the precise elements every release must include, and how to align your practices with GDPR and broader data-protection requirements. By the end, you’ll have clear, practical guidance on crafting airtight releases that respect privacy while meeting legal and ethical obligations.