(a) Nothing in this article shall be deemed to restrict the admissibility of evidence heretofore determined admissible by law nor to be in derogation of the right of a person on trial for an alleged criminal offense to confront and cross-examine witnesses against him when such right is asserted.

(b) Nothing contained in this article shall be deemed to abrogate or repeal any law or rule of evidence respecting the use of confidences, such as that provided in Code Section 24-9-21, relating to communications between psychiatrist and patient.