Doctor-patient confidentiality, also known as patient confidentiality, is a fundamental ethical and legal principle in healthcare that protects the privacy of communications between a patient and their healthcare provider. Doctor-patient confidentiality applies to a wide range of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, dentists, and other allied health professionals.
The importance of doctor-patient confidentiality cannot be overstated. It is essential for building trust between patients and their healthcare providers, allowing patients to feel comfortable sharing sensitive information necessary for their diagnosis and treatment. Doctor-patient confidentiality also protects patients from discrimination, embarrassment, and other forms of harm that could result from the disclosure of their personal health information.