Disclosure without pt consent

Question 1

Under normal circumstances

Answer 1

info can only be disclosed to a third party with pt’s written consent. but some circumstances where dentist has a statutory obligation to disclose the necessary info, or legal right to do so:

Question 2

To assist in identification

Answer 2

of person involved in road traffic accident where facial trauma prevents identification otherwise - disclosure allowed under Road Traffic Act 1988

Question 3

When requested to do so by Dental Practice Division of the Business Services Authority

Answer 3

(formerly known as dental practice board) this is when an audit of pt records is to be carried out, rather than when a course of trt is underway

Question 4

To provide info about a child to parent or legal guardian

Answer 4

although issues of age of consent to disclose must also be considered

Question 5

When it is in the public’s interest

Answer 5

such as suspected or known criminals

Question 6

When disclosure is requested by court order

Answer 6

under the prevention of terrorism act 1989 or under the police and criminal evidence act 1984

Question 7

When disclosure is necessary to a solicitor or debt collecting agency

Answer 7

to enable them to pursue a legal calling against the pt on behalf of the dentist