What are the legal consequences of violating doctor-patient confidentiality?
September 23, 2022 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Laura Vollmann
Dear Medical Law Attorney,
My name is Lina Weidmannsdorf and I have a question regarding medical confidentiality. Recently, I have learned that my doctor may have disclosed confidential information about me. I am very concerned about the legal consequences that a breach of medical confidentiality could have.
The background information to my situation is as follows: I entrusted my doctor with confidential information that I do not want to be disclosed to third parties. Now I have reason to believe that this information has been disclosed without my consent. This has made me very anxious and I am wondering what rights I have in this situation and how I can legally protect myself against it.
My concerns mainly revolve around the violation of my privacy and the possibility that my confidential information may have fallen into the wrong hands. I would like to know what legal steps I can take to address the breach of medical confidentiality and what consequences my doctor could face.
Therefore, my question to you is: What are the legal consequences of breaching medical confidentiality and how can I protect myself against it? I would be very grateful if you could assist me in this matter, as my privacy is very important to me and I want to ensure that my confidential information is protected.
Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Lina Weidmannsdorf
Dear Mrs. Weidmannsdorf,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding medical confidentiality. It is understandable that you are concerned if you suspect that confidential information has been disclosed by your doctor without your consent. Medical confidentiality is an important ethical principle enshrined in medical law to protect the privacy and confidentiality of patients.
Medical confidentiality dictates that doctors are obligated to maintain confidentiality about all information they learn about patients in the course of their medical practice. This obligation extends beyond the patient's death and includes all personal and health-related information. Breach of medical confidentiality can have various legal consequences.
If you suspect that your doctor has breached medical confidentiality, you can take legal steps to protect yourself and enforce your rights. First, you should speak to your doctor and directly address the possible breach of medical confidentiality. Often, a clarifying conversation can help resolve the issue.
If an agreement cannot be reached, you can contact the relevant medical board or a lawyer specializing in medical law to initiate legal action. Possible consequences for the doctor who has breached medical confidentiality include professional disciplinary measures by the medical board, claims for damages, or even criminal consequences.
It is important to know your rights and actively advocate for the protection of your privacy. If you have any further questions or need assistance, I am happy to help. I hope that this information is helpful and supportive in your situation.
Sincerely,
Laura Vollmann, Medical Law Attorney
