Northerner
Admin (Retired)
- Relationship to Diabetes
- Type 1
GPs risk potential conflict with patients after asking them about their alcohol intake, as they may be asked to disclose this in future, warn medical defence experts.
The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland says they have dealt with a number of situations where asking about alcohol has subsequently led to conflict between doctors and patients, for instance when they have been asked to declare any alcohol issues for insurance or work-related reports.
The MDDUS said GPs may have to breach patient confidentality at times, and consider whether the actions of a patient posses a risk to themselves and others – without the patient’s consent.
Under GMC guidance, GPs must ensure that any smoking and alcohol history is written on a patient’s medical report, but a patient must consent to this – if they choose not, these details can be hidden.
http://www.pulsetoday.co.uk/20001638.article
(free registration required)
The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland says they have dealt with a number of situations where asking about alcohol has subsequently led to conflict between doctors and patients, for instance when they have been asked to declare any alcohol issues for insurance or work-related reports.
The MDDUS said GPs may have to breach patient confidentality at times, and consider whether the actions of a patient posses a risk to themselves and others – without the patient’s consent.
Under GMC guidance, GPs must ensure that any smoking and alcohol history is written on a patient’s medical report, but a patient must consent to this – if they choose not, these details can be hidden.
http://www.pulsetoday.co.uk/20001638.article
(free registration required)