Review Question - QID 212522

This patient's wife has reported potentially concerning abuse of a prescribed medication. The first action for a physician when receiving such a report is to speak with the patient directly.

The 4 core principles of medical ethics are beneficence, nonmaleficence, autonomy, and justice. These principles call upon a physician to make sure that patients are using prescribed medications in the appropriate manner in order to treat their symptoms. As appropriate, physicians should make follow-up appointments and call the patient if there are concerns about their behavior. Importantly, a physician's first duty is to his or her patient so a call should be placed directly to the patient if there are concerning reports.

Incorrect Answers:
Answer 2: Contact his medical practice's insurance company regarding a potential claim should not be the first action because the physician should discuss the situation with the patient before taking other actions.

Answer 3: Discharge the patient for inappropriate use of medication is not appropriate because physicians have a duty not to abandon their patients.

Answer 4: Inform the patient's wife that this information cannot be accepted because of HIPAA is not appropriate because concerning reports should prompt investigation by the physician.

Answer 5: Refer the patient to a substance abuse program may be appropriate but should not be performed until after the physician has spoken with the patient first.

Bullet Summary:
A physician's first duty is to the patient and should call them directly to discuss any concerning information.