Why are medical personnel restricted from assisting in detainee interrogations?

Medical personnel are restricted from assisting in detainee interrogations primarily to maintain the integrity of medical care. This principle is fundamentally rooted in the ethical obligation of healthcare providers to prioritize the well-being and health of patients. When medical personnel become involved in interrogations, there is a risk that the trust between patient and provider could be compromised, leading to a situation where the detainee may not feel safe seeking medical assistance or disclosing health issues that need attention.

Maintaining an ethical separation between medical care and interrogation processes ensures that medical personnel can provide unbiased care and support to detainees without the pressure or influence of interrogation goals. This separation is critical in upholding the standards of medical ethics that emphasize the importance of confidentiality, trust, and a commitment to non-maleficence—doing no harm.

While the lack of training, military regulations, and potential for health compromise all hold relevance in various discussions surrounding detainee treatment, the core reason remains focused on the integrity of medical care and the essential ethical responsibilities of medical professionals.