Exceptions to Consent Requirements

There are certain situations where Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and Personal Health Information (PHI) can be disclosed without consent. Employee Health and Accommodations (EHA) may decide or are legally required to use and/or disclose this information without consent in a number of situations including the following: 

  • Emergency situations (harm to self or others is imminent or occurring or there is a very high risk of imminent harm to self or others)

  • When there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a child (under age 16) or a senior in a long-term care facility is in need of protection.    

  • For the purpose of a legal proceeding or complying with a court order, or for the purpose of administration and enforcement of various Acts by professional Colleges, Associations, and other regulatory bodies. 

  • Reported sexual abuse by a regulated health professional/regulated professional. 

If you have any questions, please contact EHA at occupationalhealth@uwaterloo.ca.