In order to provide care for you we are obliged to keep records. this is increasingly done using computers. We are obliged to comply with the Data Protection Act 1998 and other guidance on privacy and date confidentiality and we take this very seriously.
In order to manage services and improve the quality of care we provide we share some information on practice activity, e.g. with LHCC’s, Health Boards and Trusts, Scottish Office and the Common Services Agency. Whenever possible this information is anonymised, i.e. names and other identifying details are removed. We are obliged by law to provide certain information, e.g. notification of certain infectious diseases.
Information is NOT shared with any third party outside the Health Service, (e.g. Insurance companies, employers, solicitors) without your explicit consent and agreement.
Identifiable information about you will be shared with others in the following circumstances:
- To provide further medical treatment for you, e.g. from district nurses and hospital services.
- To help you get other services, e.g. from the Social Work department. This requires your consent.
- When we have a duty to others, e.g. in child protection cases.
Anonymised patient information will also be used at local and national level to help the Health Board and Government plan services, e.g. for diabetic care. If you do NOT wish anonymous information about you to be used in such a way, please let us know.
