Media
The WSMA believes that a physician should not discuss a patient's medical
condition, disease, or illness with the press without the patient's
authorization, as provided for in the HIPAA privacy rule and related
regulations. In order to aid physicians in understanding what information
is in the public domain and can be made available without the patient's
consent, the WSMA has established guidelines detailed in the 1987 Judicial
Council Opinions, 5.05, but in all cases the physician’s actions must be
in compliance with the HIPAA privacy rule and related regulations. (JC
5.04,.05-87) (Amended A-23)
Return to the WSMA Policy Compendium index
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