Confidentiality

Question 1

How does confidentiality link into the Standards for Pharmacy Professionals, as set out by the GPhC?

Answer 1

Standard: Pharmacy professionals must respect and maintain a person’s confidentiality and privacy

Question 2

Which legislative works outline confidentiality details in the UK?

Answer 2

• General Data Protection Regulation (EU) (GDPR)

- Human Rights Act 1998

Question 3

Why is confidentiality so important between HCP and patient?

Answer 3

Patients may obscure information or not ask for advice if they believe that information is not kept confidential

Question 4

In what circumstances can pharmacy professionals disclose confidential information? (4)

Answer 4

• Under consent of the person under their care

Question 4

In what circumstances can pharmacy professionals disclose confidential information? (4)

Answer 4

• Under consent of the person under their care
• Disclosing by law
• Doing so in the public interest
• Doing so in vital interest of person receiving treatment e.g. emergency medical attention

Question 5

What should be done with/regarding information if it is shared?

Answer 5

• Pseudonymise the information, or make anonymous, if they do not need to disclose identity
• Get the person’s consent before sharing (unless its not necessary, reasons outlined on other cards)
• Ensure receiver of info knows it is confidential
• Make appropriate records
• Retain copy of disclosure made

Question 6

What information should be kept in records surrounding disclosed confidential information? (5)

Answer 6

• Who the request came from
• Whether consent was gained/refused
• What they disclosed
• How it was ensured the disclosure was secure
• What the lawful authority or provision was under which the request was made

Question 7

Which information disclosures are required by law when requested? (4)

Answer 7

From:

• The police or other enforcement authority
• A healthcare regulator e.g. GPhC or GMC
• An NHS counter-fraud investigation officer
• A coroner, procurator fiscal, judge or other relevant court

Question 8

What are some examples of circumstances where disclosure of confidential information is in the public’s interest?

Answer 8

When information may be used to prevent:

• A serious crime
• Serious harm to a person receiving care, or a third party
• Serious risk to public health