Can an insurer disclose a client's personal information without consent?

The ability of an insurer to disclose a client's personal information is primarily governed by regulations that emphasize the importance of privacy and confidentiality. Insurers are required to obtain consent from their clients before sharing personal information, which includes any data that can identify an individual, including health information, financial status, or other sensitive details. This requirement is in place to protect the client's rights and maintain trust in the insurance system.

In many cases, consent must be explicit and informed, ensuring that the client understands what information is being shared and with whom. Various laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and state privacy regulations, reinforce this principle by stipulating conditions under which personal information can be shared – primarily focusing on consent as a cornerstone of ethical information handling in the insurance industry.

While disclosures can occur under specific circumstances such as compliance with legal requirements or when it serves a public interest, the foundational rule requires that consent is obtained first. This means that without prior consent, insurers cannot ethically or legally disclose personal information.