A doctor-patient relationship should be one of trust and confidentiality based upon the general premise that an individual is trying to seek medical assistance or advice without any hindrance, fear, or concern that his or her rights will be violated or personal information will be disclosed to anyone. Most people consider doctors to be trustworthy professionals and a lot of trust is put into their doctors visit. There is reason to pursue a lawsuit if doctor-patient confidentiality is violated.

In cases, where the physician is seeking information from health insurance companies to submit claims for the cost of care, the physician must release certain information to the insurance companies about the patient. Doctors are also required to report any child abuse seen after patient’s visit. Reporting communicable virus disease is also expected from a doctor. In the case where the patient sues the doctor for medical malpractice, the medical records of the patient is subpoenaed by the Medical Malpractice Lawyer and has to be released.

During the examination proceedings, the professional doctor requires a lot of personal information from the patient to properly form a diagnosis. The doctor may form his own opinion about the patient based on the information received and assessment made. The doctor, though, no matter what he or she assumes, must maintain patient confidentiality on all medical records, including patient’s x-rays, lab work and reports. The physician must communicate with the patient and staff concerning illness, symptoms and diagnosis with everyone understanding the necessity of keeping everything inside the doctor’s office.

Confidentiality is the duty of the doctor and all medical personnel and staff in the doctor’s office even after the patient stops being treated by that particular doctor. The doctor cannot give information to any third party as long as he or she is under the duty of confidentiality except in the cases of authorized disclosures discussed above. Any disclosure that is unauthorized opens the opportunity for patient’s to file a lawsuit.

The use of advanced technology even in the medical field and health care administrative and research systems, has created an anomaly in the safekeeping and privacy of patients medical records. Technology has made medical records accessible through computerized systems, electronic transmission is passed to and from medical personnel through computer links and among health providers making the confidentiality process one that is not easy to maintain. However, the physician is responsible to make the patient feel safe.

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