Chapter 4: Medical Records

Hippocrates was a celebrated physician from ancient Greece who devised the oath that doctors take before beginning the independent practice of medicine. The Hippocratic oath contains the familiar passage in which practicing physicians promise “…first do no harm.” The portion of the oath which contains a promise to keep medical information private is less well known, but is equally important.

“What ever in connection with my professional practice or not in connection with it, I see or hear in the life of men, which ought not to be spoken of abroad, I will not divulge, as reckoning that all such should be kept secret.”
- From The Oath of Hippocrates. 470 –360 BC,

As early as the 4th century B.C., Hippocrates recognized the importance of maintaining confidentiality because it encourages an honest and candid communication between physician and patient, which helps the physician to provide the best possible care.

Why does this matter?

Personal medical information pours into computer files, patient records and databases at ever increasing rates in a modern, industrialized society. Accurate, up-to-date medical information is critical to modern medical care in order to establish a correct diagnosis, to avoid mistakes and to take advantage of the most effective therapies.

Current law prohibits employers from requesting or seeking medical information before making a job offer to an applicant, but they may ask about physical abilities specifically required for job performance. For example, if the job requires lifting heavy objects, the employer may inquire about whether an applicant has any physical limitations that would prevent him/her from performing the duties.