Potilastietosuoja

Potilastietosuoja, meaning patient data protection, is a fundamental principle in healthcare concerning the confidentiality and security of personal health information. This principle ensures that sensitive medical records are handled responsibly and are accessible only to authorized individuals. In Finland, potilastietosuoja is governed by legislation, primarily the Act on the Processing of Personal Data (Tietosuojalaki) and the Act on the Status and Rights of Patients (Potilaslaki).

The core aim of potilastietosuoja is to safeguard patient privacy and build trust between patients and healthcare providers. It dictates how patient data, including diagnoses, treatments, medications, and personal details, can be collected, stored, used, and shared. Patients have the right to know who has access to their information and for what purpose. They also have the right to request corrections to inaccurate data and, in certain circumstances, to restrict access to their records.

Healthcare professionals and institutions are legally obligated to implement robust security measures to prevent unauthorized access, disclosure, or loss of patient data. This includes technical safeguards like encryption and access controls, as well as organizational policies and staff training on data protection. Breaches of potilastietosuoja can have serious consequences, including legal penalties and damage to reputation. Therefore, maintaining a high standard of patient data protection is crucial for ethical healthcare practice and the well-being of individuals.