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CONFIDENTIALITY

Information contained in records or reports concerning child abuse or neglect is sensitive and personal. Federal and State law narrowly restricts the circumstances under which information contained in reports or records may be disclosed. It is essential that health care professionals and institutions comply with the Maryland confidentiality law (article 88 a & b) of the Annotated Code of Maryland) when asked to disclose information contained in records concerning child abuse and neglect.

Confidentiality provisions states that:

  • The name of the reporter may only be revealed under a court order. However, if the reporter is a professional, he or she may give written permission for his or her identity to be revealed.
  • The identity of any other person whose life or safety is likely to be endangered by disclosing the information must not be disclosed. This is extremely important when sharing information with parents or the person who is suspected of child neglect or abuse.
  • Information should only be disclosed when doing so would be in the best interest of the child who is the subject of the report.
  • Professional discretion should be exercised to disclose only that information which is relevant for the care or treatment of the child.

In 1986, the Maryland confidentiality law was amended to permit the disclosure of information concerning abuse and neglect to licensed practitioners or an institution providing treatment or care to a child who is the subject of a report of child abuse or neglect. Maryland law also permits information to be shared with members of a multidisciplinary case consultation team who are investigating or providing services in response to a report of suspected abuse or neglect.

 

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