A confidential relationship between patient and physician is essential for the free exchange of information necessary for sound medical care. Only in a setting of trust can a patient share the private feelings and medical, social and family histories that enable the physician to properly counsel, prevent, diagnose, and treat .
The AAFP opposes legislation that infringes on the content or breadth of information exchanged within the patient physician relationship because of the potential harm it can cause to the health of the individual, family and community.
Physicians should be free to have open and honest communication with patients about all aspects of health and safety. Physicians should be able to gather any information that can impact the health of their patients and their patients’ families.
(2011 COD) (January 2022 COD)