Buchanan Road Surgery

Data Protection - What we do with your information

A guide for patients

What information do we hold about you?
We ask you for information about yourself so that we can give you appropriate care and treatment.

This information is kept together with details of the care you have received because it may be needed if we have to see you again.

What do we use it for?
Sometimes statistics are required by the Department of Health, this helps to measure NHS performance. (Procedures are followed to ensure you cannot be identified)

We may need to use some of the information for investigating complaints or legal claims.

Will my information be shared?
All NHS staff has a legal duty to keep your information confidential. If you are receiving care from other people, as well as the NHS, we may need to share relevant information to enable us all to work together for your benefit.

The law strictly controls the sharing of information. Unless there are exceptional circumstances such as when the safety of others is at risk, we will not disclose your information without your permission.

Information to relatives, friends and carers will not be given unless you consent.

Sometimes the law requires us to report information to appropriate authorities, e.g. for the protection of children or if we were to encounter an infectious disease.

Our aim is that any records we have about you are held securely and in strictest confidence.

Can I see my records?
The Data Protection Act 1998 gives you the right to see or have a copy of your personal information.

If you wish to see your records please send a letter of request to Michelle Richards Practice Manager.

Thank you