The obligation of a doctor to keep patient information private is known as Confidentiality. This principle ensures that sensitive patient details are protected from unauthorized disclosure, fostering trust between the patient and healthcare provider. Maintaining confidentiality is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment, as it encourages patients to be open and honest about their health. It is a fundamental ethical and legal duty in medical practice, safeguarding patient autonomy and dignity. Breaching confidentiality can lead to harm and loss of trust, which impacts patient care negatively. Thus, confidentiality is central to the professional conduct of all healthcare providers.

Reference: Medical Ethics, Beauchamp and Childress, 8th Edition.