How should patient data be used?
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The NHS is looking at using people’s health information in new ways to plan services and offer more proactive care. Healthwatch Bath, Healthwatch Swindon and Healthwatch Wiltshire was asked to understand what the public think to ensure that any future use of patient information reflects their expectations. They spoke to 146 people.
The findings highlight the conditions under which people feel comfortable sharing their data, and the risks that could undermine confidence.
Most people are supportive of their data being used for the public good, but this support is conditional.
Trust reduces when:
- There are concerns about security
- Information identifies individuals
- Data is shared across multiple organisations
- People feel they don’t have control
- Commercial organisations benefit
Trust increases when:
- Information is easy to understand
- Security is visible and credible
- The GP remains central to decisions and contact
- People have real choice and control
- There are clear rules
Trust is highest when health information is closely controlled by the GP. Trust reduces when information moves from the GP into the wider health system.
This means being transparent; keeping the GP at the centre, making choices visible and showing safeguards