confidentiality Flashcards
(18 cards)
what act does this link to
Data Protection act 1998
- how: Personal info including health related
what is the data protection act 1998 now
GDPR – General Data Protection Regulation - 2018
what other act does it link to
Human Rights act 1998
what is the human rights act 1998
Right to have their personal life respected
* Must abide by any internal policies on this area
* Ask for advice – employer, GPhC, insurance provider, independent legal advice
importance of maintaining confidentiality
We can’t treat people properly if they don’t trust us
* Always applies even online or after death
duty of confidentiality
Professional & legal duty
* When you disclose or share information to another
person/people in a situation when it would be
reasonable to expect that information would be kept
confidential
* Applies regardless of age – link to consent
* Applies after death - All information obtained
what can we not disclose
Electronic & hard data, personal details, medication info,
PMH, anything they share
what can we disclose
Anonymous, coded, legitimately in public domain
how to protect information in a pharmacy
- secure convos
- limit access
- proper record storage and disposal on info eg. shredding them, confidential waste bins etc
- anon data where possible
what to keep in mind when disclosing confidential info
other HCPs are not entitled to know
if u have to give, only give what is required
only exceptions when disclosing confidential info
- law says u must disclose
- if it is in public interest to
- if it causes risk to the patient or serious harm if waited
when disclosing with consent
Usual procedure unless ….
– eg you can say “Would it be okay for me to discuss
your medication/results with your GP” tec…..
* Patient clear on:
– What will be disclosed and why
– Who will be given the information
– Consequences of both choices
* Be explicit
* Be sure at all times
* Links to GDPR (was Data Protection Act)
when disclosing without consent
First step is to always try to get consent if possible
* Think – does the law require it or is it in public interest?
* Must be made in writing
* Get clarity on what is needed and why
* Get internal and external advice
disclosing as public interest
Most complex
* May have to balance patient vs public need
* What might happen if you don’t or if you do?
* Get advice if needed….
How should pharmacists protect patient information?
By securing electronic and physical records, preventing unauthorized access, and ensuring data is accurate and up to date.
What does it mean to ‘minimise disclosure’?
Only share the minimum information necessary, and ensure the recipient understands their confidentiality responsibility
What should be recorded when information is disclosed?
Who requested it, what was disclosed, the legal basis or consent, and justification for the decision.
What should a pharmacist do after disclosing confidential information?
Continue to protect the patient’s confidentiality and seek advice if unsure about future disclosures.
