Patient Confidentiality Reflect on the following scenario related to patient con
ID: 3491936 • Letter: P
Question
Patient Confidentiality Reflect on the following scenario related to patient confidentiality and respond to all of the prompts:
Your best friend tells you that she has started dating this wonderful man. When she introduces you to him, you immediately recognize that he is a patient in the medical practice that you currently work at as a Medical Administrative Assistant. The man has a long history of drug and alcohol abuse and is currently receiving treatment by one of your practice physicians. He has also been previously arrested for driving under the influence.
1. What information (if any) can you disclose to your best friend?
2. Is it appropriate for you to speak to the man directly about this since he is seeing your best friend?
3. Based on the decision you make would this be a challenging position to be in? Thoroughly explain your viewpoint on this situation based on your readings and any additional outside research you would like to share.
Explanation / Answer
Confidentiality is one of the most important principles that has been set by the American Psychological Association. Being unethical in any way is unacceptable.
1. Irrespective of the history of my client, I cannot divulge any information to my best friend. As a friend I would be concerned for her, however, I would not disclose any information.
2. No, it's not appropriate for me to speak to the man directly, as he is my patient first before a man who is dating my best friend. I would enquire about his well-being and ask him if it helps him in any way on a personal level. If she is a support to him, then it only adds to his well-being.
3. Yes, of course it would be very challenging for me to be in a position like this. On a personal level, I am concerned for my friend. But at the same time on a professional level, I cannot divulge any details. I would technically be torn between my personal and professional life. However, I would wait for my best friend to give me details about this new person she is dating. I would never directly ask, but I would like to know if she's aware of his condition and deeds. If she is aware, she is the best judge. However, if she's not aware, she will eventually know, and still would be the best judge for herself.
However, as patient confidentiality being one of ethical principles, I would abide by it and not jump the line.