Play The Podcast: Episode 87: Navigating HIA Requirements – Consent for Disclosure, Privacy Management Programs, and Successor Custodians
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1 July 2026
Speakers: Sean FitzGerald and Leanne Loranger
In this episode, Leanne and Sean discuss key changes connected to physiotherapists being designated as custodians under Alberta’s Health Information Act, which took effect on June 22, 2026. The conversation focuses on three important concepts physiotherapists need to understand as they transition to HIA compliance: verbal consent for disclosure of health information, the requirement to develop privacy management programs, and the need to designate successor custodians of health information.
The episode explains when client consent is required for disclosure of health information, what content must be included in consent, and the documentation and identity verification requirements that apply when verbal consent is accepted.
Leanne and Sean also explore privacy management programs, emphasizing that policies and procedures must be supported by training, monitoring, and updates as privacy risks and practice arrangements change.
Listeners will hear practical discussion about the implications of being a custodian of health information under the Act and learn about the concept of ‘sharing custodians’ and requirements related to shared custody of health information.
The episode closes with a discussion of successor custodian requirements, including proactive planning for retirement, relocation, illness, or incapacity.
Call to action: Physiotherapists need to know their role, understand their responsibilities, and act now to support long-term legislative compliance and protection of health information.
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