What does physician-patient privilege protect?

Physician-patient privilege is a legal concept that primarily serves to protect the confidentiality of communications between a patient and their healthcare provider. This privilege ensures that any healthcare information obtained during the course of treatment, such as medical histories, diagnoses, and treatment plans, remains confidential. This protection encourages patients to be open and honest during their consultations, which is essential for effective medical care. By safeguarding this information, the law fosters trust in the therapeutic relationship and respects the individual's right to privacy in their healthcare matters.

The other options, while relevant to the healthcare context, do not fall under the protection of physician-patient privilege. Patient identity in public records may not be shielded in the same way, and personal opinions from a physician, unless directly tied to treatment, may not have the same confidentiality protections. Discussions about billing and insurance are typically not covered under the privilege, as they involve administrative rather than clinical matters.