Originally Posted by
frustrated-one
I have not checked to see if any such confidentiality form has to be signed. I plan on going to the group and keeping my mouth shut. Once I have the treatment I am hiring an attorney. They shouldnt be allowed to force me to reveal to everyone my problem --what happened to patients rights?? The bottom line is I dont want people to know about it and they are making me tell people about it in order to get treatment . Thats really the bottom line. My rights are being violated and so is my integrity in the community. Hope my actions will prevent others in the future from having to go through it. Thanks for trying to help me. I do appreciate your time.
I understand that this is coming from frustration, but you do not have legal recourse here. First, though the doctor requires it in his standard of care, it is voluntary for you to go to the group. To go THEN hire an attorney would be putting the horse before the cart. If you feel this strongly, I recommed two things:
1. Research other physicians and see if they require the same actions for treatment. If not, consider transferring care.
2. Speak to a lawyer FIRST about your rights to privacy. Get their professional opinion FIRST, then decide if group is right for you.
The entire point for any group therapy is to eventually get every person to open up, not "keep their mouth shut". Otherwise, you're just sitting there while everyone one else opens up... it really isn't fair to them. In group, a level of trust is built amongst the participants. Legally, they often sign confidentiality reports PLUS there is a "family" mentality. They won't spill on you because you could spill on them... So if you listen but don't participate you're causing distrust as well as not gaining anything by the experience.
My whole point is this: Don't go to the group if you aren't ready to accept and commit to what it is BEFORE starting.
Besides, I bet other prominent people in the community have been in your shoes already. Who's to say a doctor or lawyer in your area isn't part of it now? Luckily, you haven't heard about it because their group members have maintained their right to privacy. ;)
Its very difficult for health-care professionals to have to treat themselves. You're used to treating others and spending your time helping, not being helped. Don't let that make you feel insecure ~ we've all been there at some point.