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Multiple Mini Mock Interview

To help you prepare for your next interview, here are 30 interview questions that you may be asked during a Multiple Mini interview.

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Question 3 of 30

Do you believe a family doctor is obligated to report their patients' infectious disease to their public health agency? Why or why not?

"When it comes to reporting the presence of infectious disease to their public health agency, a physician must familiarize themselves with the mandatory reporting obligations in their region. A physician should be aware of what details they disclose, being sure to limit the amount of information they provide, and sticking strictly with information that is mandatory to report. A physician must also ask if the information falls under the 'duty to report' or the 'duty to warn' umbrella. When a physician is concerned about a potential threat to a patient or third party, they must heartily consider all criteria and circumstances, being objective and accurate at all times. If possible, the physician should inform their patient of their duty to report or duty to warn and disclose to their patients which information they intend to share. Then, the physician should document the discussion in the patients' medical records. Of course, this process will pivot if there is an immediate risk of harm or death to the patient or any third party. If the situation were cloudy, leaving me unsure, I would contact the proper medical authority for information and advice."

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How to Answer: Do you believe a family doctor is obligated to report their patients' infectious disease to their public health agency? Why or why not?

  • 3. Do you believe a family doctor is obligated to report their patients' infectious disease to their public health agency? Why or why not?

      How to Answer

      As a physician, you may face ethical dilemmas when it comes to disclosure of patient information and the protection of the public. You have a legal duty and moral obligation of confidentiality; however, some exceptions apply. These exceptions occur when doctors are REQUIRED by law to disclose information, or when the doctors are PERMITTED by law to disclose the information. This exception may include reporting a patients' infectious disease to the public health agency, depending on the region where you plan to practice medicine. Provide a balanced response to this question, fully supporting your stance.

      Answer Example

      "When it comes to reporting the presence of infectious disease to their public health agency, a physician must familiarize themselves with the mandatory reporting obligations in their region. A physician should be aware of what details they disclose, being sure to limit the amount of information they provide, and sticking strictly with information that is mandatory to report. A physician must also ask if the information falls under the 'duty to report' or the 'duty to warn' umbrella. When a physician is concerned about a potential threat to a patient or third party, they must heartily consider all criteria and circumstances, being objective and accurate at all times. If possible, the physician should inform their patient of their duty to report or duty to warn and disclose to their patients which information they intend to share. Then, the physician should document the discussion in the patients' medical records. Of course, this process will pivot if there is an immediate risk of harm or death to the patient or any third party. If the situation were cloudy, leaving me unsure, I would contact the proper medical authority for information and advice."

      Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

      Anonymous Answer

      "A family doctor is required to report communicable diseases to a public health agency because state and federal public health agencies have mandatory reporting requirements for various infectious diseases. However, physicians should only report what is required to ensure that the patient's privacy is protected. For mandatory reporting requirements, the patient should be notified if the disease has to be reported, if possible. Mandatory reporting requirements are necessary for public health agencies in order for those agencies to allocate resources for public health crises, such as epidemics. Reporting should only be done when the threat of public health outweighs the patient's right to privacy, such as in contact tracing used for COVID-19. If the reporting situation was unclear, I would consult my state public health agency for guidance."

      Rachelle's Feedback

      It's clear that you have a firm knowledge of physician responsibilities and obligations to various parties. Your answer is clear, confident, and informative. Well done!
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