FSRH publishes updated Service Standards for Confidentiality in Sexual and Reproductive Health Services

The Service Standards for Confidentiality in Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) outline the legal and ethical obligations of confidentiality. This revision implements the Data Protection Act 2018, and includes updated guidance on identity theft.

Healthcare providers are responsible for maintaining and protecting confidential patient information. All identifiable information, whether written, computerised, visually or audio recorded, or held in the memory of health professionals, is subject to the duty of confidentiality. This is of particular importance in matters relating to sexual and reproductive health, and services must keep up to date with current national policies and guidance.

The Service Standards for Confidentiality in SRH include statements on the following aspects of patient confidentiality:

• Confidentiality Policies
• Confidentiality Training
• Patients’ Rights to Confidentiality 
• Disclosure without Consent 
• Working with Young People 
• Sharing Non-identifiable Information 
• Disposal of Confidential Information

To access the updated standard, click here.