Scenario

Estelle is a community support worker at First Access. She has been supporting 36-year-old Emily, who was a victim of domestic and family violence. Emily's doctor has recently diagnosed her with Multiple Sclerosis. Emily has informed Estelle that she does not want her family members to know about the diagnosis. However, one day, Emily's older sister, Lara, comes to First Access and requests to speak with Estelle about Emily's health.

Estelle seeks out Emily to confirm her wishes regarding the sharing of her health information with her family members. Emily continues to insist on maintaining her privacy, so Estelle returns to Lara and explains to her that she is unable to share any of her sister's information without her consent. Estelle provides Lara with information about First Access' privacy and confidentiality policy and the legal requirements around protecting clients' privacy and confidentiality.

However, Lara phones First Access the following day requesting to speak to Estelle. When Estelle takes the phone call, Lara is quite upset and insists on knowing about her sister's health. She tells Estelle, "I have every right to know about the health of my sister! Surely there is something you can do!"

After the phone call, Estelle organises a meeting with John Ford.

Identify and discuss any legal and ethical dilemmas by referring to the scenario.