im straight but isnt that personal info???
2007-10-02 13:26:05 · 22 answers · asked by sc2linkfan2k5 1 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
at a work physical
2007-10-02 13:30:47 · update #1
Hon, it's a doctor...you can't get much more personal than that. Those people see 'personal' stuff you won't see in this lifetime. They ask about STD's you have had and other delicate subjects like that.
If we want our doctors to do their best for us, we have to be upfront and honest with them.
Hope I helped. God bless you.
2007-10-02 13:34:34 · answer #1 · answered by 1985 & going strong 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your doctor is allowed to ask you almost anything. If it's pertinent to any diagnosis, or medical advice, then why would you object? As far as "personal info" is concerned, your doctor should know more about you than just about anyone else. If you can't trust him enough to tell him this detail, then what can you trust him with? Your life?
Your doctor may NOT however share this personal info with anyone else without a "need to know." That's called Doctor/Patient Privilege, and it's even protected by law.
2007-10-02 13:35:34 · answer #2 · answered by skeptik 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When your a woman - your gyno shines a bright light on your stuff and has their face inches from things your momma has not see since you where in diapers - all they while, you got your fanny hanging off a table and your feet above your head in stirrups ....and you feel more violated that your doc wanted to know if you are gay or straight?
Granted....I'm not a guy ...but from what I hear....turning your head and coughing is a bit up close and personal too.....
Your doctor wants to know your sexual orientation because that may affect what std's/illnesses you are exposed to and what body parts may be affected. In general...open communication with your Dr is how you keep healthy and get things cured.
2007-10-02 13:50:19 · answer #3 · answered by Boots 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes. All medical records are confidential under HIPAA. Your doctor cannot discuss your sexual orientation or any other part of your medical history with anyone other than other physicians who are providing care and yourself. You, of course, have the right not to answer if you chose, but it's not illegal for a doctor to ask the question.
2007-10-02 13:31:03 · answer #4 · answered by rockinout 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Anyone is allowed to ask.
For example it is not illegal for ME to right now ask you:
"What is you sexual orientation?"
This is called the freedom of speech, i anybody can ask anybody almost any question.
Of course you do NOT have to answer. Your doctor cannot REQUIRE you to disclose you sexual orientation.
2007-10-02 13:39:08 · answer #5 · answered by hq3 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I do believe his confidentiality requirements allow questions of any sort to help diagnose an issue. You have the right to withhold any info.
2007-10-02 13:28:59 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I can see absolutely no problem with any doctor knowing this information, It helps to have a full background on their patients, so they will know what to rule out in their diagnosis
2007-10-02 13:30:34 · answer #7 · answered by cheri h 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
No, it is not illegal for your physician to ask your orientation. Your doctor can pretty much ask question they want (ie. to help with diagnosis or understanding your lifestyle). Remember you went to him/her.
2007-10-02 13:46:42 · answer #8 · answered by none 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, it could have something to do with health as to how you are oriented. You do not have to answer, of course.
2007-10-02 13:34:00 · answer #9 · answered by hopflower 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Of course it's personal information. However, your doctor shouldl know EVERYTHING about you, insofar as what he or she is asking pertains to your health.
2007-10-02 13:30:44 · answer #10 · answered by Pagan Dan 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋