Important to me

[Guest guest]

This is my first post but I've been lurking and reading everything on

this and some of the other WLS boards.

As a result of the information given I've decided that if I have WLS

I'll go with the BPD/DS and will consult with doctors who have the

ability to perform the lap procedure (although I'd consider the open

if it was medically advisable).

The issue that is bothering me, which may seem (and be) bizarre, has

nothing to do with the surgery or aftercare. It is privacy

(specifically medical confidentiality).

On the group related to the problems a patient had with Dr. Ren the

patient states, " Ren has repeatedly spoken about my case with

perspective patients. It is my understanding from at least one

patient, that when she asked about my case, Ren's response was, 'I

saved her life from an ischemic bowel,' " .

I have also read a number of posts where one list member, when

reporting on another list member's surgery, mentions what the doctor

said about the operation or the patient's progress.

Is this happening because the patient signed a waiver of medical

confidentiality and specifically asked their surgeon to discuss their

medical procedures with a third party?

Does this only happen in New York (I've only noticed it in relation

to the Mt. Sinai-NYU discussions) and if so does the state of New

York have laws governing medical confidentiality which permit doctors

to discuss the patient's treatment (or even confirm the fact they are

being treated) without the patient's written consent?

If I went to a BPS/DS surgeon at Mt. Sinai or NYU could I

specifically prohibit them from discussing anything about me

including the fact that I consulted or was treated by them with

anyone? If so do I need to have papers drawn up by an attorney or is

there a form they provide for that purpose?

What patient confidentiality laws apply to surgeons who perform this

procedure in Virginia, Georgia or Mississippi? What about Spain?

I haven't seen this issue addressed on any of the WLS lists and while

it may not be a concern for others it is a major sticking point for

me. Any information would be appreciated. Thank you for your

assistance.