Legal Framework Governing Use of Personal Confidential Data

• Data Protection Act 2018


  • Ensures personal data is handled lawfully and transparently, protecting individuals' privacy.
  • Establishes principles for data processing, such as lawfulness, data minimization, and integrity.
  • Individuals have rights like access to their data and the right to rectification or erasure.
  • Organizations must secure personal data, maintain processing records, and report breaches.
• NHS Act 2006


  Most important/relevant part:

  • Established principles for patient choice and involvement in their care, including the right to information and the ability to make informed choices about treatments.
• Health and Social Care Act 2012


  Most important/relevant part:

  • Increased emphasis on patient choice and competition among providers to improve service quality and efficiency, giving patients more options to enhance care standards.
• Human Rights Act 1998


  Most important/relevant part:

  • Ensures that patients receiving healthcare services have their fundamental rights protected, including the right to life, freedom from inhumane treatment, and privacy.
  • Healthcare providers must adhere to these rights, and patients have legal recourse if their rights are violated.
• Professionalism in dentistry


  Essential for maintaining patient trust, ensuring quality care, upholding ethical standards, enhancing professional reputation, and facilitating legal compliance.