Group+Sue

Part (d) answer
//Teacher comments in italics//

Two ethical policies which must be implemented regarding the storage of patients medical information would be:

The patient should/has the right to view their own personal data so that the patient can make sure that the data stored about this is accurate //(states a policy).// If the data is not allowed to be viewed by the patients then there could be high risk of the patient getting the wrong treatment done hence both (social issue raised); patients should be allowed to view their own data in order for accurate data storing and minimising risks involved.(//social issue expanded).// However if patients are allowed to view their own data then there would be a cost factor that should be added as patients will want to make changes to their information as updates throughout the system will need to be made hence time consuming this also minimises the risk of a third person trying to change data as there is cost involved. //(provides and briefly discusses a **solution** to the possible impact of the issue - feasible?) (Technical knowledge not clear about databases - “updates throughout the system” implies flat file database or badly organised relational database.) (Also what information can a patient be able to change and what information would a patient have difficulties with?)//

Secondly, personal data should not be shared with anyone unless permission has been asked from the patient that the information is about. //(second policy stated)// This policy is important in order to protect the patients privacy rights. //(expansion)// Therefore information shouldn’t be shared with third parties or anyone else part of the medical institution. //(another perspective).//

In conclusion, I think that security is one of the biggest issues that will arise if data is not secured. (this sentence has no meaning). Patients permission should be taken first before to avoid discrimination of an individual. //(an example here would be good).// Secondly if an individual has the rights to see and modify their personal data they can provide the hospital with accurate information and benefit themselves in the long run. E.g. in emergencies. If the patient has updated their information then the treatment can be done quickly and accurately. //(continues to expand upon first policy and the social effect).// However if there are costs involved then the customer may not be encouraged to regularly update their information and therefore causing problems. //(Discussion about first policy).// Overall both policies need to be used in order for accurate and safe data storage and access. //(No value to this sentence).//