Jane Doe does not want her violent boyfriend to know shes getting an abortion. She asks Dr. John to send all communications to her to a post office box and to only call her at work. What should Dr John do, and what is the legal basis?

Check this site.

http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/physician-resources/legal-topics/patient-physician-relationship-topics/patient-confidentiality.shtml

I'm not a lawyer, but I can offer some general advice. In a situation like this, it is important to prioritize the safety and well-being of Jane Doe. Here are some possible steps that Dr. John could consider:

1. Confidentiality: Dr. John should ensure that all communications and medical records regarding Jane Doe's abortion are handled with utmost confidentiality. This may involve implementing additional security measures such as password protection or encryption for electronic communications.

2. Alternative contact information: Dr. John should respect Jane Doe's request to send communications to a post office box and to only call her at work. These measures can help ensure that her boyfriend does not discover her intentions.

3. Privacy laws: It's essential for Dr. John to familiarize himself with the applicable privacy laws in his jurisdiction. Laws regarding patient confidentiality and medical records can vary from place to place, so understanding the legal requirements is crucial in order to protect Jane Doe's privacy rights.

4. Informed consent: Dr. John must ensure that Jane Doe fully understands the abortion procedure, its potential risks, and any alternatives available to her. Obtaining her informed consent is an ethical obligation and may also be legally required.

5. Professional judgement: Dr. John should exercise his professional judgement and consider whether disclosing Jane Doe's request for secrecy is necessary to protect her safety. Depending on the situation and relevant laws, there may be circumstances where it is appropriate to breach confidentiality in order to prevent harm.

It's important to note that specific legal obligations and requirements may vary depending on the jurisdiction. Therefore, it would be wise for Dr. John to consult with legal professionals, such as healthcare attorneys or medical ethics specialists, to ensure compliance with the applicable laws and ethical standards in his specific situation.