Legal Requirements
The Freedom of Information Act
The Freedom of information act became law on the 30th November 2000. The Practice conforms to the requirements of the Act and has produced a publication scheme in accordance with the Act. A copy of the Act is available on the Freedom of Information website.
The Data Protection Act:
All our staff are bound by the same rules of confidentiality as the Doctors and Nurses. The Practice is computerised and patients' details are held on computer. We are therefore registered under the Data Protection Act 1998.
Why we keep information about you
Your doctor and other health professionals caring for you keep records about your health and any treatment and care you receive from the NHS.
These records help ensure that you receive the best possible care from us.
They may be written down or held on a computer. The records may include:
- Basic details about you, such as address and next of kin
- Contacts we have had with you, such as consultation details
- Notes and reports about your health and any treatment and care you need
- Details and records about the treatment and care you receive
- Results of investigations, such as x rays and laboratory tests
- Relevant information from other health professionals, relatives or those who care for you and know you well
How we keep your records confidential
Everyone working for the NHS has a legal duty to keep information about you confidential.
You may be receiving care from other organisations as well as the NHS (like Social Services). We may need to share some information about you so we can work together for your benefit.
We will only ever use or pass on information about you if others involved in your care have a genuine need for it. We will not disclose your information to third parties without your permission unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as when the health and safety of others is at risk or where the law requires information to be passed on.
Confidentiality & your Health Records
How you can get access to your own medical records
The Data Protection Act 1998 allows you to find out what information about you is held on computer and in certain manual records. This is known as “right of subject access”.
If you want to see them you should make a written request to the Practice Manager. You are entitled to receive a copy but should note that a charge will usually be made. You should also be aware that in certain circumstances your right to see some details in your health records may be limited in your own interest or for other reasons.
Further Information
If you would like to know more about how we use your information or if, for any reason, you do not wish to have your information used in any of the ways described please make an appointment to speak to the Practice Manager.
