Sentry Page Protection

Ethical Scenario 21


The receptionist receives a phone call; it’s from the wife of a patient asking if her husband had registered at the dental practice and when his next appointment is. The waiting room is full. The receptionist responds to the caller, confirming his details over the phone and that his appointment is on Friday at 2pm. Which ethical issues arise here?
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​Excellent Candidate response
  • The receptionist is part of the dental team and all members must maintain patient confidentiality and protect their details (4th GDC standard).
  • The receptionist should not confirm the husband’s appointment with anyone but the person in question or unless he himself has given consent to inform someone else and their identity also confirmed.
  • The receptionist must not repeat patient details over the phone especially in a full waiting room.
  • These errors are a breach of patient trust and confidentiality; duty of candour should be considered in ensuring that corrective measures are taken as well as the affected parties (patient) being appropriately informed of the shortcomings.