Question

My doctor disclosed my status to another specialist, what can be done to reverse this?

28 January 2011. Related: All topics, Disclosure.

Hello to all,

I’m asking this question as I have come across the same feeling as another person. I have a great problem with my consent being given when I was referred for an X-ray by my HIV doctor. On the slip I was told to give the x-ray department was written my HIV status I didn’t realise this until I handed it over. I wasn’t asked weather this was ok and on returning to my clinic I asked if this was allowed and was told that it was necessary to inform them.

In a question already asked on this site you answered saying it’s my choice to disclose. Now I feel very open and mis-informed as this information will now always be on my general hospital notes with is a great worry and discomfort to myself. What, if anything, can I do to remove or stop this from being on my records? I’m British and so unhappy!

Answer

Answer: Charlotte Walker

Thank you for your question.

I am very sorry to hear that your doctor disclosed your HIV status without your permission. They should have only done this having asked you first. Unfortunately there is little you can do to remove this now that it is on your records. You should definitely talk to your doctor to ensure that he/she does not do this with any referrals in the future. He/She needs to know how unhappy you are about this.