Handling and storage of health information
As part of our commitment to preserving the confidentiality of the information contained in your medical record we advise that strict secure storage policies are observed in this practice.
- Your electronic records are accessible only by staff of this practice and are protected by a security password.
- Your paper records are kept in secure filing cabinets or rooms and are accessible only by practice staff. Each member of staff understands the importance of doctor-patient confidentiality.
Confidentiality
Medical files are handled with the utmost respect for patient privacy. A patient’s file will be accessed by the medical practitioner, and when necessary, for example in the absence of a patient’s usual medical practitioner, by other medical practitioners in the practice. It may also be necessary for our staff to handle medical files from time to time to address the administrative requirements of running a medical practice.
Such confidentiality requirements will be observed if it is necessary for them to view your records.
External parties and confidentiality
On occasion it is likely that external organisations will need to access our practice to allow us to maintain a functioning workplace. Further, it may be likely that the medical records kept on site will be viewed, for example, by IT contractors. Such contractors to this practice sign a confidentiality agreement, and where that external organisation provides service or advice to this practice, they will be bound by the terms of the confidentiality agreement.
Contact person
Should you, at any time, have a query or complaint in relation to the privacy policies in place at this practice please contact the Practice Manager who will be happy to address any concerns you may have.
Complaints
It is the practice’s policy that any complaint must be made in writing and addressed to the Practice Manager and marked “private and confidential”. Upon receipt of the written complaint we will endeavour to address complaints within 60 days of receipt of your complaint.