USMLE Ethics Question 4

Q: Mr. Jameson is a 56-year old patient of yours who you have recently diagnosed with pancreatic carcinoma. You have referred him to an oncologist who plans to treat him aggressively with chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. The patient urges you not to tell his wife who is also a patient of yours about his diagnosis. His wife asks you about his diagnosis. What should you do?

A: Do not discuss Mr. Jameson's medical condition without his permission. However, you should encourage him to reveal his diagnosis to his wife.