Mark Borden MD | Public Safety Obligations

While patient confidentiality is crucial, doctors such as Mark Borden MD, MD also have a responsibility to protect public safety. This obligation can sometimes necessitate breaching confidentiality. For example, if a patient presents a clear and imminent danger to others, such as in cases of serious contagious diseases or threats of violence, the healthcare provider may be ethically and legally compelled to disclose information to prevent harm.

 

Public safety concerns can extend beyond immediate threats. In situations involving infectious diseases, public health authorities may require information to trace contacts and prevent outbreaks. This creates a tension between the individual’s right to privacy and the community’s right to safety. Balancing these competing interests is one of the most challenging aspects of healthcare ethics, requiring careful consideration of the potential consequences of both action and inaction.