Q: Is it unlawful for a dental surgeon to refuse their practice to the patient for no stated reason?
I have asked questions to the dental surgeon about the operation and insurance coverage. At a certain point the surgeon said that they will not remove the tooth because they dont "feel well". I asked for an explanation, but the surgeon went away and refused to answer more questions. I feel like this is a malpractice of unexperienced surgeon. For me it seems like this refusal is due to the surgeon to refuse to listen to my questions. How can I trust a surgeon's liability, if they arent comfortable with communicating with the patient.
A: As a general rule, physicians may choose who they will treat. But there are additional elements, such as whether the situation is an emergency, or there is a contractual relationship. Additionally, a medical professional may not decline treatment based on reasons that amount to discrimination. Additionally, it could also depend on whether a physician-patient relationship has formed, and that could be fact-specific, and beyond the scope of a brief response. There are attorneys who specialize in this area and its ethical considerations. Another option is to consider the possibility of a different surgeon. Good luck
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