What does the term "duty to warn" imply in a healthcare context?

In a healthcare context, the term "duty to warn" refers to the legal obligation of healthcare providers to inform third parties when a patient may pose a credible threat of harm to them. This concept is grounded in the principle that when a therapist or healthcare provider knows that a patient is likely to injure someone else, they must take reasonable steps to prevent that harm from occurring. This might involve notifying potential victims, law enforcement, or appropriate authorities.

This duty arises from the need for patient confidentiality balanced against the potential risk of harm to others. Such obligations are sometimes codified in laws and vary by jurisdiction, but they are generally recognized as a critical aspect of maintaining public safety while providing care.