Do you HAVE to let a new doctor know of your medical history?
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Probably a podiatrist wouldn't have to know everything, but he should be made aware of your general health and what medications you are taking to make sure he doesn't prescribe something that conflicts with medications you are already taking. Conditions like diabetes are very important for a podiatrist to know.
Wouldnt you want your doctor to know your complete medical history? Don't worry about what the doctor thinks. I'm sure they know about stranger things. So just give them the complete history.
Your physician can not effectively help you manage your medical care without full knowledge of your medical history. If you do not feel comfortable with the physician you have now, choose another.
It's not the law. But if you want them to be able to take care of you they should know all your medical history in order to give you the right care needed
i don't think it's a law, but wouldn't you prefer them to know anyway so they can treat your symptoms easier??
Doctor-patient confidentiality is important to most doctors, so just give them all the information that seems pertinent. You should tell your doctor your medical history.
If you want, you can ask about what their privacy policy is. Most places have them these days, so I figure hospitals probably do too.
You don't have to, but you'd only be hurting yourself. What you think may not be necessary for your doctor to know might be EXTREMELY important at some point in reference to some problem you have later.
Your medical problems are like pieces to a puzzle. If you are sick or have something happen, or need medication at some point for something and if your doctor doesn't have your complete history - it could potentially cause problems for your health.
Keep in mind your doctor has patient confidentiality. They, BY LAW, cannot divulge any of your information to anyone. It is just between you and your doctor.
Let me give you an example of how it could hurt you. Say you had or have an STD that went awhile without treatment... or you still even have it. Then let's say you start not feeling well and they determine you have an autoimmune disorder such as lupus. Certain medications they may want to put you on for that could affect the STD you already have, or if it is dormant.
So, for your own health and your LIFE, tell your doctor EVERYTHING.
No it's not the law. You can hide your medical history but if something were to happen which is from a past medical condition you did not tell your doc about then he can't be held liable if you get sick from it some how. I wouldn't hide medical history, who cares docs have seen it all.
Why would you not be up front and honest with your Doc? He is not a mind reader, if you want help for your problem then you need to tell him your history. Besides sweetheart don't think you are the only one who has tried that on him/her, this isn't their first rodeo and they are educated in ways that you know nothing about.. Or you wouldn't want to deceive your Doc.
Your doctor needs to know your health history so he knows if something in the past could be causing it.
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