If you were a team doctor, how would you handle media or public inquiries about an athlete’s injury and prognosis?

Specialty-Specific

Purpose

This question checks if you understand patient confidentiality and ethics in sports medicine. They want to see if you can balance athlete privacy with media demands.

Tips

  • Start by emphasizing that patient confidentiality is your top priority and no info will be shared without the athlete's consent.
  • Mention following team media protocols and working with a media relations officer to ensure consistent messaging.
  • Explain how you'd provide general updates without specifics, like saying the athlete is being evaluated, to avoid speculation.

Common mistakes

  • Don't share too much detail or specific prognoses without the athlete's go-ahead.
  • Avoid sounding vague or generic; be clear about your strategies for handling inquiries.
  • Don't forget to mention the importance of maintaining a professional demeanor under pressure.