Question

If a relative/friend asks her therapist if they have seen their relative/friend yet (even if the relative told them they have booked); the therapist:

a) Must confirm the appointment
b) Can confirm the appointment
c) Can't disclose if they have seen them
d) None of the above

Answer 1

The therapist cannot disclose whether they have seen their relative/friend due to strict confidentiality rules mandated by laws, such as HIPAA, which protect patient privacy.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a relative or friend asks a therapist whether they have seen their relative or friend for a session, the correct answer is that the therapist can't disclose whether they have seen them or not.

This is due to the confidentiality rules which are a fundamental part of therapeutic practice and are mandated by laws and ethical codes that all therapists must adhere to.

In particular, laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States strictly prohibit the sharing of any healthcare-related information without the consent of the patient.

Therefore, even if the family or friend of the patient mentions that the patient has an appointment, the therapist must maintain confidentiality and cannot confirm or deny any details about the patient, including appointment scheduling or attendance.