This Website Privacy Statement outlines the practices of The Howden Medical Centre regarding the collection, use, preservation, and disclosure of personal data obtained from users. It serves to inform users of their rights concerning their personal data and the measures taken to protect their privacy. By using the services, websites, or other online platforms provided by The Howden Medical Centre and submitting personal data, users consent to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.
Information We Collect
Howden Medical Centre collects personal data to enhance the quality of care provided. Personal data refers to any information related to a living, identifiable individual, such as name, height, weight, date of birth, and medical history. This data collection complies with the Data Protection Act, which governs the use of personal data across electronic and physical media:
- Personal information is collected through various interactions:
- Registration and subsequent interactions as a patient.
- Visits to NHS or health partner facilities.
- Participation in the Patient Group.
- Applications for employment
Usage of services provided by Howden Medical Centre
- Communications via email, phone, or social media.
- Participation in surveys or other website interactive features.
- This data aids in personalising and enhancing user experience on the website, although users can choose not to provide certain information.
Why We Collect Your Information
- The primary uses of collected information include:
- Delivering requested products and services.
- Ensuring safe and effective care.
- Collaborating with care providers.
- Responding to legal obligations.-
- Improving care quality.
- Optimising website content.
- Gathering public health data.
Data Retention and Lawful Basis
Data is retained following the Health and Social Care Department's guidelines and the Health and Social Care Records Management Code of Conduct 2016, ensuring secure destruction of confidential information. Data processing is justified on several legal bases, such as performance of a contract, legal obligations, vital interests, legitimate interests, and user consent. The specific purposes for data collection are detailed within the Privacy Policy.
Data Sharing
Personal data may be shared with various organizations to facilitate healthcare delivery or as legally required. These organisations include health authorities, NHS services, GPs, social services, educational bodies, local authorities, the police, and other public and private sector entities involved in healthcare or audits.
Security and CCTV Use
Personal information security is paramount; data is not sold to third parties and is shared only to support healthcare delivery. The practice utilises encrypted networks and emails to safeguard data. CCTV footage may be used for crime prevention and shared with the police if necessary.
Telephone Calls and User Rights
Telephone calls to the practice may be recorded for training and monitoring purposes, with protocols to secure and control data access. Users have various rights regarding their personal data, including access, correction, restriction of use, erasure, and objection to data sharing.
Concerns and Complaints
Users can raise concerns about data handling practices by contacting the Practice Manager or the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) for unresolved issues.
This Privacy Statement is intended to provide a transparent overview of The Howden Medical Centre's data handling practices, ensuring users are fully informed about how their personal data is used and protected.
