How often should consent for disclosures be reviewed or updated?

• A. Update consent only when required by law.
• B. Review and update consent for disclosures as needed, not on a fixed schedule.
• C. Never update consent after initial.
• D. Wait for annual permission.

Answer: (B)

Consent for disclosures should be reviewed and updated as needed, not on a fixed schedule. This reflects that privacy preferences, treatment needs, and applicable laws can change over time. Revisit consent whenever there is a material change—such as who will receive information, what information can be shared, the purpose of disclosure, or when the patient wants to revoke or modify the consent. Document any updates and confirm the patient understands the current permissions. Updating only because law requires it, or never updating, or waiting a set time like annual permission, can miss changes in the patient’s wishes or new circumstances, increasing risk of improper disclosures.