On 25th May 2018, the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will come in to effect. Under this new law, European standards in data protection will align with current technology standards. This is good news for individuals who are affected by data processing.
In accordance with the new General Data Protection Regulation we have updated our Privacy Policies for you to read.
Patient leaflet- How we use your records
Privacy Notice for Patients
Patient Information Leaflet
Privacy Notice - Direct Care
Privacy Notice- National Screening
Third Party Consent Form
Subject Access Request- Copies of records
National Data Opt Out Programme
The 25th May 2018 also saw the introduction of the NHS ‘National data opt-out programme’; this is a service that enables data subjects to opt out of having their data shared for research and/or planning purposes. NHS Digital will be automatically converting patients’ existing type 2 objections to the new opt-out from 25 May 2018.
Our patients do not need to take any action, and this will not affect the way your information is used. We are continuing to respect yoiur original choice to not share confidential patient information beyond NHS Digital for research or planning, but your choice will be recorded as a national data opt-out rather than a type 2 objection.
Every patient who is now aged 13 or over with a type 2 objection recorded will receive a personal letter explaining the change. The letters will be issued from June 2018 and will include a handout which explains more about the national opt-out. The letter will ask our patients to contact NHS Digital should they have any questions.
Below is a useful link for patients from NHS Choices called 'Your NHS Data Matters' click on the below link for more information.
http://link.ict.hscic.gov.uk/l/3a40d905a49e4c2bb75f6a250c71c3fa/655E3A74/4969E713/052018n
Choose if data from your health records is shared for research and planning
Your health records contain a type of data called confidential patient information. This data can be used to help with research and planning.
You can choose to stop your confidential patient information being used for research and planning. You can also make a choice for someone else like your children under the age of 13.
Your choice will only apply to the health and care system in England. This does not apply to health or care services accessed in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
Information: This information is also available in other languages and formats.
What is confidential patient information
Confidential patient information is when 2 types of information from your health records are joined together.
The 2 types of information are:
- something that can identify you
- something about your health care or treatment
For example, your name joined with what medicine you take.
Identifiable information on its own is used by health and care services to contact patients and this is not confidential patient information.
How we use your confidential patient information
Your individual care
Health and care staff may use your confidential patient information to help with your treatment and care. For example, when you visit your GP they may look at your records for important information about your health.
Research and planning
Confidential patient information might also be used to:
- plan and improve health and care services
- research and develop cures for serious illnesses
Your choice
You can stop your confidential patient information being used for research and planning. Find out how to make your choice.
If you’re happy with your confidential patient information being used for research and planning you do not need to do anything.
Any choice you make will not impact your individual care.