Circle of Care Privacy — NDEB AFK MCQ

Correct answer: A — The group of healthcare providers directly involved in a patient's care who may share health information without express consent

The 'circle of care' is a concept in Canadian privacy legislation (PIPEDA, provincial health privacy acts) that allows healthcare providers directly involved in a patient's care to share health information for the purpose of providing that care, without needing explicit written consent for each information exchange. For dental offices, this includes the dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant, and front office staff involved in treatment coordination. Information sharing outside the circle of care requires patient consent.

Reference: PIPEDA – Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act; Provincial Health Privacy Acts