Exceptions to Doctor-Patient Confidentiality

When a doctor treats a patient, they enter into an agreement with that patient that states that they will not provide any treatment or diagnostic information to another party. Known as doctor-patient confidentiality, this agreement strictly protects a person’s private health information from any prying outside eyes. However, doctors may be required to provide this information in some instances, breaking the confidentiality agreement.

To discuss your legal options if your physician has released your medical information without your consent, contact the New Jersey breach of doctor-patient confidentiality lawyers of Levinson Axelrod, P.A., by calling 800-346-5529 today.

When Confidentiality Can Be Ignored

Breaking confidentiality is often considered grounds for a medical malpractice suit. However, a break in doctor-patient confidentiality may legally occur in certain circumstances. This often depends on who is asking for the information, although, in some cases, specific findings may warrant outside attention.

The following instances may override doctor-patient confidentiality:

• Reporting communicable diseases to state health workers
• Providing information to insurance companies
• Being subpoenaed for a case
• Informing authorities in cases of child abuse

In these cases, a doctor may legally release information that must otherwise be kept private unless the patient’s consent is given.

Contact Us

If your physician has leaked sensitive information to other parties about your health without your consent, you may be entitled to pursue litigation due to their negligence. For more information regarding your legal options, contact the New Jersey breach of doctor-patient confidentiality attorneys of Levinson Axelrod, P.A., at 800-346-5529.