ABSTRACT
The principle that information passed from patients to their doctor should be kept confidential is seen as sacrosanctand continues to be supported by the law, international instruments, and professional and Department of Health (DoH) guidance. A doctor cannot treat a patient effectively unless there is full sharing of information, which might not be forthcoming if there are concerns about confidentiality. Where the line should be drawn between respecting rights to confidentiality and disclosure is the key question this chapter will address.
