Confidentiality
Freedom Of Information Act
Ifield Medical Practice conforms to the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2000. A publication scheme has been produced in accordance with the Act, a copy of which can be obtained by writing to the Practice Manager.
The Patients Charter For England
The Practice fully supports the Patients Charter. Information concerning this can be obtained from the practice manager.
Access To Information And Data Protection Act 1998 / PATIENT CONFIDENTIALITY
We need to hold personal information about you on our computer system and in paper records to help us to look after your health needs, and your doctor is responsible for their accuracy and safe-keeping. Please help to keep your record up to date by informing us of any changes to your circumstances.
Doctors and staff in the practice have access to your medical records to enable them to do their jobs. From time to time information may be shared with others involved in your care or those people who need to know in the course of an individuals care, for administration or for improving services. Anyone with access to your records is properly trained in confidentiality issues and is governed by both a legal and contractual duty to keep your details private. All information about you is held securely and appropriate safeguards are in place to prevent accidental loss.
In some circumstances we may be required by law to release your details to statutory or other official bodies, for example if a court order is presented, or in the case of public health issues. In other circumstances you may be required to give written consent before information is released such as for medical reports for insurance, solicitors etc.
To ensure your privacy, we will not disclose information over the telephone or fax unless we are sure that we are talking to you. Information will not be disclosed to family, friends or spouses unless we have prior written consent, and we do not leave messages with others.
You have a right to see your records if you wish. Please ask at reception if you would like further details. An appointment will be required. In some circumstances a fee may be payable.
SUMMARY CARE RECORD
The NHS proposes to introduce a shared care record enabling medical agencies to access and share information, if clinically necessary. Patients are able to opt out of this scheme and further details can be obtained from the Practice Manager.
Patients have the right to see their medical records and where copies of records are requested, a fee will be charged in accordance with the Act.
Please contact the practice manager for further information.