Disclosure & Communication of medical data

A vital principle for the processing of medical data is the respect for confidentiality.

Confidentiality

It is crucial not only to respect the privacy of a patient, but also to maintain the patient confidence in the medical profession and health services in general. Otherwise, where an individual is in need of medical assistance, but fears that their medical data could be unlawfully disclosed to other persons and authorities, they could feel deterred from revealing information of a personal and intimate nature. Thus, the individual may avoid necessary treatment, thereby endangering their own health and, in the case of transmissible diseases, the health of others, too.

Consent

Generally, data concerning your health is only allowed to be disclosed with your written consent. However, there are situations stipulated by law where your consent is not required. Although disclosure in such situations interferes with your private life, it will only result in a violation of privacy if not done lawfully.

Has my medical data been processed lawfully?

To evaluate whether your medical data has been disclosed lawfully and whether your privacy has been sufficiently respected, see the questions below. If, in your situation, your answer to one of these questions is negative, your privacy may have been violated. In such a case, you have the right to complain. Read more about how to complain.

Resources

Last updated 22/03/2024