Florida Chiropractic Laws and Rules (FCLR) Practice Exam

In what situation is a chiropractor permitted to disclose patient information without consent?

1. If it provides financial gain

2. If ordered by court subpoena

3. If discussed among staff for training purposes

4. If it helps with marketing efforts

The correct answer is: If ordered by court subpoena

A chiropractor is permitted to disclose patient information without consent when ordered by a court subpoena. This legal directive requires the practitioner to provide specific information as mandated by a court, ensuring respect for the legal process and safeguarding the integrity of investigations or legal proceedings. In other scenarios, patient confidentiality is a fundamental ethical and legal obligation that chiropractors must uphold. Disclosures for financial gain or marketing efforts undermine patient trust and violate ethical standards. Additionally, while discussions among staff for training purposes may seem beneficial, they typically require de-identification of patient information or obtaining appropriate consent to maintain confidentiality. Thus, only a court subpoena provides a clear legal basis for disclosure without patient consent, aligning with the regulations governing privacy and confidentiality in healthcare.