FRACGP Professional Standards and Ethics 2

Question 1

A GP discovers they have a bloodborne infectious disease. According to RACGP ethical guidelines, what is their primary obligation?

Accepted Answer

Seek advice from their own treating physician and relevant authorities about practice modifications

Answer

GPs with bloodborne diseases must seek independent medical advice and guidance from relevant authorities to determine safe practice modifications.

Question 2

Under the RACGP Code of Conduct, when may a GP ethically decline to provide a requested service?

Accepted Answer

When the service conflicts with the GP's personal values, provided the patient is referred to another provider

Answer

Conscientious objection is permissible but requires the GP to ensure the patient can access the service through referral.

Question 3

A patient requests access to their medical records. The GP believes disclosure may cause serious harm to the patient. What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Provide access with an offer to discuss concerns, or apply for a harm-exemption through formal processes

Answer

Under the Privacy Act, harm exemptions exist but must be formally assessed; the GP should first offer to discuss and support the patient.

Question 4

Which of the following best defines 'therapeutic privilege' in the context of RACGP ethics?

Accepted Answer

Withholding information from a patient when disclosure would cause serious harm to their health

Answer

Therapeutic privilege allows withholding information only when disclosure itself poses a serious health risk, and it is applied very narrowly.

Question 5

A GP is asked by an employer to provide a pre-employment health report on a prospective employee who is their existing patient. What should the GP do?

Accepted Answer

Obtain written consent from the patient and explain what information will be shared

Answer

The GP must obtain explicit informed consent from the patient before sharing any health information with a third party such as an employer.

(FRACGP) Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Practice Test

(FRACGP) Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Practice Test

FRACGP Professional Standards and Ethics 2