potilasrekistereitä

Potilasrekisterit, in Finnish, refer to patient records or medical records. These are official documents containing a patient's medical history, diagnoses, treatments, medications, allergies, and other relevant health information. The primary purpose of patient records is to ensure continuity of care by providing healthcare professionals with a comprehensive overview of a patient's health status. They are crucial for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and monitoring patient progress over time.

In Finland, patient records are subject to strict data protection regulations, primarily governed by the Act on the Processing of Personal Data (Tietosuojalaki) and the Act on the Status and Rights of Patients (Potilaslaki). These laws ensure patient privacy and confidentiality, dictating who can access the records and under what circumstances. Healthcare providers are legally obligated to maintain these records accurately and securely.

Patient records can exist in various formats, including paper-based files and electronic health records (EHRs). Electronic systems are increasingly common, offering benefits such as easier access, improved legibility, and enhanced data sharing capabilities between different healthcare units. However, robust security measures are paramount to protect sensitive personal health information from unauthorized access or breaches. Patients have the right to access their own records and to request corrections if they identify any inaccuracies.