Vulnerable patients, consent and confidentiality

Dr Sarah Jarvis
ByDr Sarah Jarvis
Published06 September 2017
When patients are at risk of abuse or neglect, doctors must decide whether or not to breach their duty of confidentiality and share information with the relevant authorities. Dr Sarah Jarvis explains how these decisions are made.

Confidentiality is not an absolute duty.

This page was correct at publication on 06/09/2017. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.

Dr Sarah Jarvis
MDU medico-legal adviser

Sarah studied at St George's Hospital medical school, intercalating a BSc as part of her studies. After completing her GP training she became a GP principal, a position she held for 12 years alongside roles as a GP trainer, prescribing lead and child protection lead within her practice. Sarah also sat on (and later chaired) the GMC and MPTS fitness to practise panels for 10 years.

Vulnerable patients, consent and confidentiality