Confidentiality, privacy and data law

Question 1

When can you disclose information about patients?

Answer 1

If required by law
If the patient consents
If it is justified in the public interest

Question 2

Can information about a minor be disclosed to their parents?

Answer 2

If the patient is under 16 and is deemed to have capacity, then only with their explicit consent can the parents be told

Question 3

Can information about an adult without capacity, e.g. in a coma or detained under the mental health act, be disclosed to their family?

Answer 3

Certain information can be disclosed to the patients family or friends but the rules are very complex

Question 4

What should you do regarding the DVLA if your patient is no longer fit to drive?

Answer 4

You should inform your patient of a legal duty to inform the DVLA or DVA about the condition
If a patient continues to drive when they may not be fit to do so, you should make every reasonable effort to persuade them to stop

Question 5

What should you do if a patient is continuing to drive against advice?

Answer 5

Contact the DVLA or DVA immediately and disclose any relevant medical information to the medical adviser
You should then also inform the patient immediately as well as in writing once you have done so