Your health records contain confidential patient information, which can be used to help with research and planning. If you would like this to stop, you can opt out of this yourself or on behalf of someone else. For example, if you are a parent or guardian of a child under the age of 13
What confidential patient information is
Two types of information join together to become confidential patient information. This is information that:
- can identify you
- says something about your health care or treatment
One example can include your name and address (identifies you) along with what medicine you take (health care or treatment). Identifiable information on its own is used by health and care services to contact patients and this is not confidential patient information.
How we use your confidential patient information
Your individual care
Health and care staff may use your confidential patient information to help with your treatment and care. For example, when you visit your GP, they may look at your records for important information about your health.
Research and planning
Confidential patient information is also used to:
- plan and improve health and care services
- research and develop cures for serious illnesses
Where you have a choice
You can stop your confidential patient information being used for research and planning. Your confidential patient information will still be used for your individual care. Any choice you make will not change this.
