Trust is built in details people may not see
Health and assessment information can be highly personal. Trust depends not only on what a service says, but on whether it can explain why information is requested, who may see it, how it is protected and how a person can exercise their rights.
Clear privacy information and appropriately controlled access can help people make informed choices about sharing information. They also support clinicians and staff to work with relevant information without creating unnecessary exposure.
Privacy and care belong together
Information governance is not separate from the person’s experience of care. It is part of respectful communication, particularly when a pathway involves health information, family context, school input or documents from another professional.
People should ask questions if they are unsure how information will be used. A service should be able to explain its approach clearly, including any limits on what can be shared and the need for appropriate consent.