In which case can a physician reveal confidential patient information without written permission?

The situation in which a physician can disclose confidential patient information without obtaining written consent primarily revolves around circumstances that involve immediate safety or public health concerns. A gunshot wound typically falls into this category due to the potential risk of harm associated with violent crimes or threats to the individual or community.

When a physician treats a patient with a gunshot wound, they may be compelled to report the incident to law enforcement to ensure that the patient receives proper care and to initiate investigations necessary for public safety. This reporting is often governed by law, enabling healthcare professionals to balance patient confidentiality with the need to address potential criminal activity.

In contrast, other scenarios mentioned, like disclosing information related to infectious diseases or emergency situations, may have specific legal and ethical guidelines, but they generally do not automatically justify disclosure without permission as clearly or explicitly as the case with a gunshot wound. Clinical study purposes also require patient consent due to the need for informed participation. Thus, providing information about a gunshot wound conforms with legal statutes aimed at protecting the broader community’s safety and responding to possible criminal acts.