If a doctor is infected with HIV, is he or she required to report it to patients?

Answer 1

No. All doctors should at all times be using universal precautions - which basically means wearing gloves when coming into contact with bodily fluids, washing hands, etc. If they are doing this - as is required by law - then you are unlikely to contract HIV from them. Just as a patient is under no obligation to inform a doctor of his/her HIV status. (because, again, it shouldn't matter, if everyone is using universal precautions) HIV status is confidential, no matter who is infected.

Answer 2

I think they have to report to there patients. However they might be protected by the client confidentiality pact.
I really do not they a person can contact HIV from contact with a HIV patient, I believe that you could only get HIV from sexually contact or blood transfusions.
Most of time doctors take severe precautions in preventing any spread of dieases even HIV virus.
I hope this help. Take care.
This month in Toronto at my work they had a huge AIDS convention discussing cures, prevention and AIDS awareness programs. There was alot of discussion on research in mircorobcide. I believe it suppose to come in cream or pill that kills virus.

Answer 3

Yes. even if not required by law or the professional code of conduct. Ethically one should.

A dentist in Aus reported to Australian health authorities as soon as he/she learned of the outcome. Bravo!

Answer 4

of cos!he is responsible for his patients as he is a doctor if he keep this as a secret it is not being fair to his patients as they could possibly be infected also.

Answer 5

if i were on your shoes, i would not report it to the patients, instead, i would go to my head/supervisor and ask his/her opinion and make a decision!

Answer 6

Among other people, YES !