This is the culturally appropriate choice. Although in many Asian cultures it is common for the physician to tell the diagnosis and prognosis to the family, rather than the patient, you cannot be sure whether or not the patient actually does want to know. Sometimes a well-meaning family tries to protect a patient from information the patient really does want. It’s always best to let the patient decide. If patients want to know, they will tell you to give them information directly. If they would prefer not to know, they will tell you to discuss it with a family member. In this situation, a physician should also check with the legal department of the hospital to see if there are any legal ramifications.