Appointment to Discuss a Family Member

Policy

Disclosing information about a patient to another family member without permission is a breach of patient confidentiality.

Clinicians at GPDocs Model Practice may only discuss a patient's medical information with their family/whānau with that person's consent (or the consent of their parent/guardian or legal representative). Breaches of this may be investigated by the Privacy Commissioner | Te Mana Mātāpono Matatapu and the Health and Disability Commissioner | Te Toihau Hauora, Hauātanga.

Normal standard appointment fees apply.

See also Disclosing Patient Information.

Before making an appointment for a patient's family/whānau member

1. Tell the family/whānau member they may make an appointment. Explain that the clinician:
   • will only be able to listen to their concerns and may not say much
   • cannot disclose any patient information unless the relative has permission from the patient.
2. Explain that you must discuss the request with the relevant clinician and you'll phone them back. Take their contact details.
3. Confirm whether the patient has given permission for medical information to be discussed.

   If the family/whānau member cannot provide evidence of permission, either phone the patient to confirm they have given permission or ask them to get a signed note from the patient.

4. If the clinician gives permission, go ahead and make an appointment.
5. If the clinician doesn't give permission, phone the family/whānau member and let them know, explaining the clinician's reasons. Suggest they put their concerns in writing.