If there is anything in your records that is factually incorrect, it may be possible to correct this in accordance with your rights under the Data Protection Act but any request to amend information must be made in writing. Entries expressing medical opinion which were reasonably based on the information available at that time will generally not be changed even if they subsequently prove to be incorrect, but we will add to the entry to explain the position more fully in the light of the later information received, in some cases if the request is submitted in writing.

For effective and comprehensive medical care and training, a number of health professionals, including students, may need access to records. Everyone working for the NHS has a legal duty to keep your information confidential. We will only give information to third parties, such as solicitors or relatives, with your permission.

Information Governance

We take security and confidentiality very seriously. Staff are required to abide by strict codes of conduct and participate in regular training.

Your information may also be used for other NHS purposes and passed to other organisations so we can all work together for your benefit. The sharing of information is strictly controlled and wherever possible we will remove details that identify you.

Uses of your information could include:

• Teaching and training healthcare staff.
• Helping staff to review the care they give, to make sure it is of the highest standard. Reviewing and planning services to meet local need. This includes sending information to Health Authorities and the Department of Health.
• Helping with research into better methods of healthcare. The Local Research Ethics Committee must approve research projects. In some circumstances we will need to ask your permission to use information about you.

In some situations we have a legal duty to report information to the appropriate authorities, for example:

• Reporting of certain infectious diseases that might seriously affect the health of others e.g. meningitis or measles (but NOT HIV or AIDS).
• Where a formal court order has been issued.

All NHS and Primary Care Trusts have a 'Caldicott Guardian'. This is the person who oversees the systems to keep information safe and secure. You can obtain their details from Reception and can arrange to see them

You can also contact the office of the Information Commissioner who has responsibility for ensuring good practice in all aspects of Data Protection - leaflet request line - 0870 600 810. Alternatively their web site is: www.dataprotection.gov.uk