The Goldwater Rule guides psychiatrists to share only general advice via email, saving detailed diagnoses and personalized treatment plans for face-to-face consultations.
The Goldwater Rule is a guideline for psychiatrists. It prevents them from giving a professional opinion on someone they haven't examined personally. According to an article for Psychiatry News by Aaron Levin, “The rule applies to public figures and states: “[I]t is unethical for a psychiatrist to offer a professional opinion unless he or she has conducted an examination and has been granted proper authorization for such a statement."
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) established this rule in 1973. It came after an incident involving Senator Barry Goldwater. In 1964, Goldwater ran for President of the United States. During his campaign, a magazine published opinions from over 1,000 psychiatrists. These professionals speculated about Goldwater's mental health without ever meeting him. They called him "unfit" for office based on their distant observations. This publication sparked controversy and legal action.
Goldwater sued the magazine for defamation and won. This case highlighted the ethical problems of diagnosing from a distance. The APA saw a need to prevent similar situations in the future. They created the Goldwater Rule to maintain the integrity of psychiatric practice. The rule upholds that only direct evaluation leads to a credible diagnosis.
See also: Using HIPAA compliant emails to overcome mental health stigma
The Goldwater Rule shapes how mental health professionals talk to patients. It emphasizes the need for personal evaluations. Psychiatrists can't offer opinions on someone's mental health without a direct examination. This ensures accurate and ethical diagnoses.
In face-to-face sessions, this rule means psychiatrists focus on thorough, personal assessments. They gather detailed information from patients directly. This approach builds trust and ensures treatment plans are based on accurate evaluations.
Beyond in-person sessions, the Goldwater Rule affects other forms of communication. In emails, phone calls, or online chats, psychiatrists must be cautious. They can't diagnose or offer specific advice without a personal examination. This rule helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures advice is based on complete information.
For example, if a patient emails with symptoms, a psychiatrist can't give a full diagnosis. They might suggest an in-person session instead. This ensures they gather all necessary details to provide accurate care. It also prevents misdiagnosis based on incomplete information.
See also: HIPAA Compliant Email for Mental Health Professionals
A HIPAA compliant consent form must include clear information about the use and disclosure of patient information, the patient's rights, and an acknowledgment of understanding and agreement.
It refers to any health-related information that can identify an individual, including medical records, treatment details, and personal data like name, address, and social security number.
Telepsychiatry is the practice of providing psychiatric care and consultation through telecommunication technologies.