Statement attributed to:

Jack Resneck Jr., MD

President, American Medical Association

“The AMA has warned (PDF) regulators that the lack of digital privacy can damage the patient-physician relationship -- and the urgency of this threat is much greater with the downfall of reproductive rights. We are grateful that the Biden Administration immediately recognized that these issues have moved from theoretical to frighteningly real. The new guidance makes it clear that physicians are not required to disclose private medical information to third parties and provides patients with tips on the use of personal cell phones and tablets. The AMA has identified and recommended (PDF) additional actions to increase transparency on what apps are doing with medical information.

“Physicians are committed to protecting our patients' privacy—a crucial element for honest health discussions. Yet, we learn more each day that personal health information is no longer private. With the Supreme Court ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the lack of privacy raises many questions that could put patients and physicians in legal peril. That medical information was previously being siphoned off and monetized was always a concern. Now, it’s a legal threat as zealous prosecutors can track patients and access their medical records to determine what medical services were provided. The Supreme Court has created chaos in health care with its irresponsible decision. The AMA is working with regulators to protect the patient-physician relationship in the face of so much uncertainty, and this new guidance will help.”