The relationship between a doctor and a patient involves a high level of confidentiality. This means that either one or both parties involved in that relationship must give their consent before any third-party has access to sensitive information.
By nature, medical information is usually very sensitive and personal. According to FindLaw, doctor-patient confidentiality means that an individual should be able to seek medical care without fear that the doctor will release information about their condition to others without explicit permission to do so.
What information does doctor-patient confidentiality protect?
Doctor-patient confidentiality covers any information that a patient may personally reveal to a doctor, but it also includes any conclusions or opinions the doctor has regarding the patient’s condition. Confidentiality involves all existing medical records and any communication between the patient and the doctor. This also usually includes communication between the patient and other professionals who are working at the behest of the doctor.
Is there a statute of limitations on confidentiality?
In this case, no. Doctor-patient confidentiality will continue to be in effect even if the patient moves on and is being seen by another doctor. It will also continue after the death of a patient. This means that even if you die, any information you reveal to a doctor or any medical records are still protected by the confidentiality agreement.
In essence, a medical professional should not share your medical documentation without your explicit consent to do so. If a doctor or other medical professional breaks confidentiality, it is possible that you can file a medical malpractice suit against that professional.
