There are certain expectations we have when visiting the doctor. We expect friendly staff, a comfortable waiting area, and a doctor willing to give you the medical help possible. The doctor's office is also a place where, as a patient, you can tell your doctor about any health concerns you have, and you don't have to worry about them sharing any private info to others. This week, we're learning all about doctor-patient confidentiality- the rule that keeps your private talks, well, private.
Doctor-patient confidentiality is important for any patient to know, but how is it viewed by doctors themselves? In a short 2 minute YouTube video, Dr. Nelson Chan, M.D, goes over how important confidentiality is in the medical world, and how "patients who believe that their health information will remain confidential are more likely to provide doctors with more accurate information, which in turn will lead to better medical advice."
Confidential Health Care for Minors
The American Medical Association (AMA) published an article that goes into greater detail on ethical codes for the medical field, specifically about minors, or people under 18 years old. This code expertly lays out all the rules and regulations doctors have to consider whenever choosing to discuss private information about their patients.
Our last resource for this week comes to us from www.rcgp.org.uk. There, we found a PDF file containing two unique scenarios, both asking you to step into the shoes of a GP (General Practitioner, or doctor) and decide whether or not you're allowed to share news about a patient's condition, even to coworkers or the patient's family. These scenarios are super fascinating, let us know your answers in the comments below!
Have you heard of doctor-patient confidentiality before this? What are your thoughts on sharing private information? Let us know in the comments below! For youth and young adults, ages 13-26, join us on the SPAN Youth Chat on Wednesdays from 4:30-5:00 PM.
Resources...
Link to SPAN's website: www.spanadvocacy.org
Link to SPAN's Youth in the Know Resource Page: Youth in the Know
We're here for you! Call SPAN if you need assistance: 1-800-654-7726
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