About patient confidentiality

[hyalophora09]

I have a question for you guys. My physician's nurse is a close friend of our family.Last year she told a relative of mine ,who is a patient of his also,that the doctor and her were worried over a health issue of mine.She told her what it was.I have not trusted her since and I'm very apprehensive about telling my doctor certian things. I'm wondering if I should just switch physicins,as I would never say anything to get her in trouble?Should I say something to her about it or do I have to sign something for my record to be confidential?Please let me know ,as I am thinking of looking for a new doctor because I feel uncomfortable when I go there now.It was done out of concern,not gossip.Thanks.

[OldnurseRN]

Regarding the paper you signed that would have been a copy of their privacy policy, which IS mandated by law, to inform you that your personal information will NOT be made public, etc. The physician probably didn't respond because it's his practice and his responsibility to ensure the laws are followed. I understand your hesitancy to make a formal complaint but seriously, if she talked to your family member why is it unreasable to think she talked to relatives of other patients "because she's concerned"?