Personal Health Records

The Personal Health Information Protection Act(PHIPA)- Ontario, Canada

Did you know that when you visit a hospital or any health care setting, have a test done or receive care in your home, health information is recorded in your health records?

Under PHIPA in Onatrio Canada, you have the rights to:

• Give consent to how your personal health information is collected, used and stored.
• Request access to your health records
• Make corrections to your records

When you visit a hospital or health care setting, you may be seen by more than one health disciplines. These Health Information Custodians are required to take steps to safeguard your health information. Each will have access to your health records to:

1. Access your health history
2. Record pertinent data about your visit

To access your health history-This is important for several reasons:

• To give the right treatment
• To make appropriate referral.
• To collaborate with those who know about you.
• To know about your health condition.

To Record Pertinent Data This will be new information added to your record at that time. It will be notes about your visit and treatment, including any tests. It may include recommendations. This information will be entered in your Health Records. The Health Information Custodian will sign his or her name and designation. The new data then becomes part of your personal health records. This is done by each Health Information Custodian each and every time you are seen by one. The Personal Health Information Act sets out guidelines for all Health Information Custodians to follow. It applies to all involved in the delivery of healthcare services.

Under this act Health Information Custodians are required to:

• Safeguard your personal health information
• Collect only what they need to do their job
• Take reasonable steps to ensure your health records are accurate and complete for the work they do
• Provide a written description of the practices they use to protect your information

Personal health records, their use and storage may be an issue for your health system. Yours may have different regulations.

For more info: contactus@makinghealthdecisions.com

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