Annie’s Mailbox: Tell doctor about gossiper on staff

Dear Annie: A woman I know works at my former doctor’s clinic in a low-level position. A friend recently told me this woman repeats everything that is in the medical records. It’s true, because family and friends have commented about my “confidential” health issues, some of which date back 40 years.

Even though I complained to my doctor about “Gossip Girl’s” breaches of confidentiality, she is still working in the clinic and still ruining lives by blabbing about everyone. Since then, I have changed clinics. But why would a clinic not protect the medical confidentiality of their patients? – Cannot Take Back the Spoken Word

Dear Cannot: Maybe the woman is well-connected or your complaints didn’t go far enough up the chain of command. But that clinic is leaving itself open to a lawsuit if the blabbermouth keeps leaking confidential medical information. Make sure the doctor knows exactly why you left. You also can file a complaint with your state licensing board. (You can find a list through the American Medical Association at ama-assn.org.)

Dear Annie: “Depressed and Overwhelmed” is in one of those Catch-22 situations – depressed, isolated, struggling to maintain a career at a time when employers look for any excuse to fire someone older. She’s not making enough money to pay for top-notch mental health care, but too much to qualify for free care.

Cognitive behavioral therapy can be effective, and it can be administered in a group setting that significantly reduces the cost. She should also actively deal with her isolation by doing volunteer work and getting involved in community activities. She may have to drag herself to these things, but it’s well worth it. – Been There, Done That, Got the T-shirt