An employer asks for the client's diagnosis 'for the file,' but the…

Question

An employer asks for the client's diagnosis 'for the file,' but the client refuses disclosure beyond functional needs. In the dual-customer role, what should the counselor do?

Accepted Answer

Redirect the discussion to essential functions and needed accommodations while protecting the client's privacy preference on diagnosis disclosure — Employers need to know how the work gets done—not the client's private diagnosis label. Keep the focus on essential functions and accommodations, honor the client's disclosure choice, and still be a useful partner. Privacy and partnership can share the same table.

Answer

Send the full medical record to the employer to keep the vacancy open

Answer

Refuse all further contact with the employer because dual-customer work is unethical

Answer

Promise the employer a diagnosis label after the client starts work

An employer asks for the client's diagnosis 'for the file,' but the client refuses disclosure beyond functional needs. In the dual-customer role, what should the counselor do?

Short Explanation

Full Explanation