There are over 85 types of HPV infection, with 9 of those types considered to be high-risk types which lead to cervical cancer. When found early and treated properly, cervical cancer has very high treatment and survival rates. While in the ER, Andrea is also diagnosed with cervical cancer. It is at this point that Hathaway faces her ethical dilemma. It is important to explore the background of confidentiality policies, and reasons why confidentiality can be broken, in order to determine what course of action Hathaway should take.
Confidentiality is a very old concept, reaching back even to the Hippocratic oath.
In order for medicine to be practiced and for therapy to be effective, patients must trust in the confidential nature of the information revealed during an examination. Respect for the individual patient should lead to respect for confidentiality. Breaches of confidentiality are disrespectful of individual privacy and autonomy rights. Fidelity of the physician-patient relationship requires respect for confidentiality. When patients enter into a relationship with a medical professional, an implied promise of confidentiality is made.