What is Community Health Care Information Sharing?
It is a confidential way for organisations to share the records and information they hold about you. We will share the information recorded about you electronically between our community services and your GP practice.
If you receive health care from more than one community service provided by Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust, for example a district nurse and a podiatrist, they can both see this information too.
What information about me will be shared?
Examples:
- Diagnosed conditions – to understand your needs.
- Medications – to know what medicines you have been prescribed.
- Allergies – to avoid medicine that might cause an allergic reaction.
- Test results – to speed up your treatment and care.
- Referrals, clinic letters and discharge notes – for up to date information.
- Contact details – to get in contact with you.
What information about me will not be shared?
Information such as fertility treatment and sexual health won’t be shared. If there are any other types of information you would prefer not to share, or you don’t want to have any of your information shared with your GP, please discuss this with your community health care professional.
Why do you need to share my information?
We currently share patient information using paper records and by phone, but this can be slow and inefficient. Community Health Care Information Sharing will allow us to improve our service by sharing information more quickly, securely and efficiently.
What are the benefits of information sharing?
- We can provide safer, better care for you
- We have less paperwork to complete
- We have more time to spend with you on your care
- We have all the information we need to help you make the right decisions about your care
- You won’t need to repeat your details to everyone involved in your care
Who will be able to see my Community Health Care Information?
Only health care professionals directly involved in your care will be able to see your shared Community Health Care Information. This can be done on electronically protected mobile devices.
How do I know my shared Community Health Care Information is secure?
By law, the NHS must respect your privacy and keep your information safe. This electronic system can identify the time, date and name of anyone who has accessed your information. We ensure that your information is only viewed by the people who really need to see it.
Can I access my Community Health Care Information?
Yes. Under the Data Protection Act 1998 you can request access to all information that organisations hold about you, including copies of paper and electronic records. To access your Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust community health care records please contact:
Gateshead Health
Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust,
Queen Elizabeth Avenue,
Sheriff Hill,
NE9 6SX
