Why is confidentiality important and when might it be broken?

Confidentiality essentially concerns the privacy of a patient's personal/identifiable details, with information only being given on a need-to-know basis to relevant professionals and ensuring the patient is aware of this. It is important because it improves trust, the information given may be sensitive and it is also important when considering safeguarding of vulnerable people (children and older people).
It may be broken if: The patient consents (e.g. for a study), it is of benefit to a patient lacking capacity (e.g. discussing with relatives to act in best interests), it is required by law (e.g. notifiable disease, birth), or it is in the interest of a single person or the general public (HIV, STIs, TB).

SY
Answered by Soonyiu Y. Medical School Preparation tutor

1536 Views

See similar Medical School Preparation Mentoring tutors

Related Medical School Preparation Mentoring answers

All answers ▸

How do I get relevant clinical experience for a medical school application?


What should I include in my personal statement?


What are the major health issues facing the UK at the moment?


What if I do not get any offers?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning