Why Is Doctor-Patient Confidentiality So Important?
Anything said within your doctor’s surgery should remain between the two of you. But when can a doctor rightfully disclose personal information? And what happens if a family member is diagnosed with a condition to which you could fall prey? We discuss the principles and dilemmas involved in doctor-patient confidentiality. The Confidentiality Principle Doctor-patient confidentiality is simple: as a patient you have a right to complete confidentiality. Anything said within the confines of a clinic surgery, or treatment room becomes protected under the Data Protection Act. This includes the fact that you were even there. Doctors have no right to supply anyone, even close family members, with your medical records or information. Mothers cannot obtain information on their children (without their consent) and doctors have no obligation to inform parents about teen pregnancies either. Privacy is an important issue. “Many young people mistakenly believe that after they’ve been to the doctor fo
