Nikki Patel takes a look at how the new GDPR legislation might affect you.
Will patient data give you a headache?
You may, or may not, have heard the term GDPR being mentioned by your practice manager, owner or employer – it stands for the
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and it is coming into force on 25 May 2018.
The GDPR aims to make organisations more accountable in the way they collect, store and use data and within NHS dentistry, it means those who are handling data need to comply or might face a hefty fine.
As a foundation dentist or an associate, you are likely to be a 'data processor' under these new regulations, and your practice should explain what your responsibilities are, and what you need to do under them to ensure you are complying.
Your practice may also ask to make a change to your contract, to include wording show they are ensuring their associates are complying. If this happens and you'd like advice on any contract wording changes, do use the
BDA's free contract checking services – our experts can offer tailored advice on this topic.
Nikki Patel
Chair Young Dentists Committee
