Keeping documents safe in the healthcare sector
Privacy starts from within
Keeping documents safe in the healthcare sector
By Marios Xenophontos
Director, Fileminders Ltd
Privacy seems a straightforward principle, but translating principle into practice can be difficult. The privacy of patients’ records is central to the ethical code of each medical organisation, since is one of the vital duties to keep them confidential and safe.
The duty of confidentiality goes beyond undertaking not to divulge confidential information; it includes the responsibility to make sure that written patient information is kept securely. Confidential records should not be left where other people may have casual access to them or must be avoided breached, as a result of improper disposal or loss. However, Fileminders have the experience and know-how that can help organisations manage the medical records of their patients safely and at the same time eliminate any negligent incidents from officers.
Safeguarding is a fundamental right for everyone to protect their medical records, which are highly sensitive, thus healthcare organisations should pay attention and comply accordingly. Doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, have a professional and ethical duty to respect patients’ confidentiality and should only access records if they are involved in the patient’s care and this is on a ‘need-to-know’ basis. On the other hand, patients have a right to request access to their own medical records and can also provide consent for disclosure to third parties.
As a result, healthcare organisations have a duty to protect the confidential data of their patients.
Healthcare organisations can implement these rules for keeping patient data secure to support patient privacy:
ï‚§ Monitor and audit workforce member compliance with privacy policies and procedures
ï‚§ Develop and adopt appropriate policies and procedures
ï‚§ Communicate privacy policies and procedures
ï‚§ Train workforce members on privacy policies and procedures
Marios Xenophontos is Director of Fileminders Ltd., www.fileminders.com.cy , a records and information management (RIM) company