Patient Confidentiality

Confidentiality

We ask for personal information so that you can receive care and treatment. This information is recorded on our computers, and of course we are registered under the Data Protection Act 1998. The practice will ensure that patient confidentiality is maintained at all times by all members of the practice team. However, for the effective functioning of a multi-disciplinary team it is sometimes necessary that medical information about you is shared between members of the team.

You have a right of access to your health records.  Patients can normally see their own computer record in the consulting room as the doctor or nurse use it. Patients can request access to their own written and computer records, although the records may not be removed from the practice premises. Assistance is given if access is required to the computer records, and in this circumstance a member of staff will stay with you at all times to ensure confidentiality of other patients. If copies or a computer printout are required, a charge is made for this to cover any costs incurred.

Access to medical records for people outside the health care team, is only given with the patient's express written permission. District nurses and health visitors have access to the medical records of the patients whom they look after.

Access to Medical Records

We are required to submit patient information to governing bodies as part of our position as an NHS organisation.  This information is transferred after patient identification details have been removed.  Some information is transferred complete and is used in monitoring.

As a practice responsible for the training of doctors who wish to embark on a career in general practice, we ourselves are subject to an inspection process.  This involves an independent team viewing medical records.  The purpose of this process is strictly limited to ensure that our practice complies with the educational standards required from practices that train future GP’s.

The visiting team is subject to a strict duty of confidentiality as defined by the General Medical Council.  If any patient objects to their records being inspected as described, please inform the receptionists.  Your wish to opt out of the inspection process will be respected.

Should you wish to view your medical records we are happy to arrange an appointment at the centre for this on receipt of a written request.  If you wish to have a copy of your medical records , we are happy to provide this following a written request. Our practice manager will be happy to assist you as required. If copies of your paper notes, or a computer printout, is required, a charge will be made for this to cover any costs incurred.