Dear patients,
Given the unprecedented challenges of Coronavirus pandemic, we have made plans with our neighbouring GP surgeries to ensure continuity of patient care. In the event that your own surgery may not be able to operate, arrangements are being made for clinicians within our Swadlincote Primary Care Network to be able to temporarily access all patient records, regardless of where registered. Some surgeries are already being impacted by reduced staffing levels due to Government guidance on self-isolation measures. Please be assured that this decision has been made with your patient safety in mind.
Communication from Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care has advised: GDPR does not inhibit use of data for coronavirus response. GDPR has a clause excepting work in the overwhelming public interest. No one should constrain work on responding to coronavirus due to data protection laws. We are all having to give up some of our liberties; rights under GDPR have always been balanced against other public interests.