Ethics and Confidentiality

Summary

• The BPSU and the research teams involved in studies are unreservedly committed to preserving medical confidentiality in all aspects of their work.

• The BPSU requires study applicants to demonstrate their compliance with each of the eight principles outlined in the Data Protection Act 1998.

• The BPSU requires study applicants to demonstrate their compliance with the principles outlined in the Caldicott Report (1997)

• The BPSU requires study applicants to detail the security measures in place to protect patient confidentiality

• The BPSU requires that all studies have MREC and NIGB section 251 approval (formerly PIAG Section 60) before commencement

For further information on the BPSU position on ethics and confidentiality of disease surveillance see our documents:

• Ethics, Consent and Confidentiality; and

• Guidance for BPSU investigators on patient confidentiality