I am not a pilot, nor do I work for an airline, but I am trying to get reliable information from a reliable source on this issue.

What level of medical confidentiality would everyone here be comfortable with, particularly concerning psychological issues? From what I have heard, a pilot who took the prudent action of seeking psychological counsel when they have difficulty dealing with some issue in their life, could be facing serious and possibly permanent career problems. Is this something that creates a barrier to those who might otherwise benefit from such counsel?

What are the present rules for airline pilots? Is it limited to general HIPPA confidentiality laws?

If someone is diagnosed with something that might impinge on their ability to work by a private doctor, is there a law that would require the doctor to inform the company flight surgeon? If not, should there be?