Confidentiality refers to the practice of protecting personal or sensitive information from unauthorized access or disclosure. It involves a set of rules or promises that limit access or place restrictions on certain types of information. Confidentiality can be protected through confidentiality agreements, legal requirements, and professional and ethical standards.

In healthcare, confidentiality means that practitioners should keep a confidence between themselves and the patient, as part of good care practice. This means that practitioners should not share personal details about someone with others, unless that person has given permission or it is absolutely necessary. Confidentiality is important for building relationships with service users and encouraging them to come forward with issues.

In business, confidentiality is important for protecting proprietary information and maintaining trust between parties. Companies owe their employees a degree of confidentiality, meaning that they must store sensitive information about them securely and away from prying eyes.

Confidentiality is important because it creates a sense of trust in relationships. Breaking confidentiality can affect the care or services provided, as service users will be less likely to provide the information needed to care for them. It can also affect the publics confidence in all health and care professionals.

Overall, confidentiality is a crucial aspect of many professions and industries, and it is important to understand and respect the rules and promises that protect personal or sensitive information.