How can you keep peer support data confidential?

1 Understand the laws and policies

The first step to keeping peer support data confidential is to understand the laws and policies that apply to your role, setting, and jurisdiction. Depending on where you work or volunteer, you may be subject to federal, state, or local regulations that govern how you collect, store, and share data. You may also have to follow the guidelines and standards of your organization, program, or network. Make sure you are familiar with the rules and expectations that affect your peer support practice and comply with them at all times.

2 Obtain informed consent

The second step to keeping peer support data confidential is to obtain informed consent from your peers before you collect, use, or disclose any data. Informed consent means that your peers understand the purpose, benefits, and risks of sharing their data, and that they agree to do so voluntarily and without coercion. You should explain to your peers what data you will collect, how you will use it, who you will share it with, and how you will protect it. You should also inform them of their rights to access, correct, or withdraw their data. You should document their consent in writing or electronically and keep it secure.

3 Use secure methods and tools

The third step to keeping peer support data confidential is to use secure methods and tools to collect, store, and share data. You should avoid using paper forms, notebooks, or diaries that can be lost, stolen, or damaged. Instead, you should use encrypted digital devices, platforms, or applications that have password protection, backup, and recovery features. You should also avoid using public or unsecured networks, devices, or accounts to access or transmit data. Instead, you should use private or encrypted networks, devices, or accounts that have strong passwords, firewalls, and antivirus software.

4 Limit access and disclosure

The fourth step to keeping peer support data confidential is to limit access and disclosure to only those who need to know and have permission. You should not share data with anyone who is not authorized by your peers, your organization, or the law. You should also not share data with anyone who does not have a legitimate and relevant reason to know. You should only share the minimum amount of data necessary to achieve the purpose and avoid disclosing any identifying or sensitive information. You should also respect the confidentiality of other peers' data and not access or use it without authorization.

5 Dispose of data properly

The fifth step to keeping peer support data confidential is to dispose of data properly when it is no longer needed or required. You should not keep data longer than necessary or appropriate for the purpose or the law. You should also not keep data that is inaccurate, outdated, or irrelevant. You should delete or destroy data in a secure and irreversible way that prevents any recovery or reconstruction. You should also follow the policies and procedures of your organization or program for data retention and disposal.

6 Educate yourself and others

The sixth step to keeping peer support data confidential is to educate yourself and others about the importance and practices of data confidentiality. You should keep yourself updated on the laws, policies, and standards that apply to your peer support role and setting. You should also seek training, guidance, and support on how to handle data confidentiality issues and challenges. You should also raise awareness and promote a culture of confidentiality among your peers, colleagues, and stakeholders. You should also report any breaches or incidents of data confidentiality and take corrective actions.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?