Patient Confidentiality

Read the following case and comment

A 21-year-old female patient requested examination after her boyfriend was treated for venereal warts. The patient sought medical attention on two separate occasions. On the first visit, a Pap smear was performed, which was negative for human papillomavirus (HPV). On the second visit, the Pap smear was repeated, also with negative results.

A medical assistant in the office was acquainted with the patient. The medical assistant revealed information about the patient’s complaint and testing to some of her friends, all of whom knew the patient. The patient found out that her medical information had been disclosed.

Answer the following questions:

Who do you think is at fault in this situation? The provider, the medical assistance, everyone?

How can you protect patient privacy?

If you overheard the conversation, what would have been the best course of action?

What should be the disciplinary action, if any?

What laws, if any were violated?