As an employer, one of the foremost legal responsibilities is to ensure that the personal information collected regarding patients and staff members is secure and kept in the highest confidence.
This information, which includes everything from personal details such as address and phone number through to the treatments provided, and even financial history is deemed to be “sensitive” information by the federal Privacy Act 1988. (In addition to the privacy laws of Western Australia.)
There is an obligation on the custodian of the patient record ‘The Dentist’ that the information recorded is not misleading or likely to be misinterpreted. Innuendo and gossip have no place in a record that may be read by another practitioner at some stage.
Exceptions to privacy:
- The disclosure is necessary to protect against a serious imminent threat to a patient’s life or health.
- The disclosure of information is required or authorised by law.
- The disclosure of information is reasonably necessary to enforce criminal law or a law imposing pecuniary penalty, or to protect public revenue.
Third party request is required in writing, and where necessary authorised by the patient.
I will not;
- Access, use, disclose or retain personal information of patients or staff members. Except for the purpose of performing my duties.
- Discuss inter clinical issues. (Gossip)
- Disclose my remuneration or other conditions of my employment with staff members.