Confidentiality and Disclosure of Information: GMS, PMS and APMS Code of Practice

The Code sets out guidance on the confidentiality of information, including patient information, held by primary care contractors, and access by and disclosure of, that information to PCTs - for example, in connection with practice annual visits and QOF assessments. PCTs are required by Directions to comply with the provisions of the Code when exercising certain functions.

The Code makes explicit existing legal and ethical obligations of confidentiality, putting them in the context of the new primary care contractual arrangements, and sets out principles of good practice. It also describes circumstances in which SHAs or the Department of Health may require access to contractor-held information.

Confidentiality and Disclosure of Information: General Medical Services (GMS), Personal Medical Services (PMS), and Alternative Provider Medical Services (APMS) - Code of Practice

The Confidentiality and Disclosure of Information: General Medical Services, Personal Medical Services and Alternative Provider Medical Services Directions 2004

A 'plain English' summary of the Code of Practice and a FAQ sheet has been produced that may help resolve issues you may have around dealing with confidentiality during the QOF review process.