Confidentiality
The WSMA believes physicians have an ethical and legal obligation to
respect the rights of privacy and confidentiality of HIV-positive
individuals, while allowing for appropriate transmission of information
among health care providers when caring for the individual. The exchange
of medical information relating to sexually transmitted diseases (HIV
included) should remain confidential except when in conformation with
confidentiality regulation (WAC 248-100-0016). (Res 28, B-89; Res 9, A-90;
Res 35, A-90; Res 37, A-90; JC 2.18-87) (Reaffirmed A-23)
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Abbreviations for House of Delegates report origination:
EC – Executive Committee; BT – Board of Trustees; CPA – Council on
Professional Affairs; JC – Judicial Council; CHS – Community and Health
Services