Hospital Authority upholds patient confidentiality

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

The Hospital Authority (HA) spokesperson made the following statement today (June 14):
 
     The HA reiterates that the prime concern of public hospitals is ensuring patient safety during the course of patient management, which should not be compromised by any non-clinical activities.
 
     The HA also upholds the overriding principle of patient confidentiality, which is the cornerstone of patient confidence. All patient information is collected on a clinical needs basis, while observing the need-to-know principles in information access.
 
     There is a well-established procedure, including proper documentation, in handling requests for patients' information from law enforcers. If in doubt, front-line staff are encouraged to consult senior staff or the HA Major Incident Control Centre.