However, the rule generally does not apply to confidences shared with physicians when they are not serving in the role of medical providers.
The reasoning behind the rule is that a level of trust must exist in the doctor–patient relationship so that the physician can properly treat the patient.
However, the patient may be reluctant to divulge the names of their older sexual partners, for fear that they will be charged with statutory rape.
If, in the case the police become aware of such information, they are not allowed to use it in court as proof of the sexual misconduct, except as provided by express intent of the legislative body and formalized into law.
In some jurisdictions in Australia privilege may also extend to lawyers,[6] some victims,[7] journalists (shield laws),[8] and priests.