Question

Sherman H. is taken into an exam roon in the office of Dr. K. by the medical assistiant, Mary. Mary gets int a discussion with Sherman about their mutually favorite sports teams. As Mary leaves the exam room, she accidentally places Sherman's medical files on the counter. While Sherman waits for Dr. K., he reads trhoug them and and is shocked to discover that his recent HIV test came back positive. Sherman panics and runs out of the office without seeing Dr. K.

Dr. K. tries to reach Sherman but there is no answer on his phone. Dr. K. then sends a letter marked "Confidential" to Brian's home, stating that he must be treated and needs to inform his partners about his HIV status. Sherman does not respond to this letter.

Did any ethical or legal violations occur?

Answer 1

Yes. There is ethical, or legal violation occur.

As the Sherman"s found HIV positive, the reports of the Mr. Sherman is confidential and it should never keep anywhere. It is healthcare personnel responsibility to keep the records confidential until the disclosure of the condition to the patient.

Mary should not leave the documents even accidentally as it is very confidential matter and it is sensitive issue of the patient.

And one more thing Sherman should not leave the clinic or hospital without intimation to the agency, and violated the policies if the agency.

Patient should leave the hospital only with the medical advice.