Research, data protection, privacy, legislation, health data, social care data, best practice
Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs) form a fundamental part of information governance in assuring that individuals’ rights to privacy and confidentiality are appropriately protected. PIAs are used across all sectors but are particularly important in the context of personal health information as this is regarded as being sensitive information and merits higher protection under privacy legislation. The guidance outlines a step-by-step process for undertaking a PIA and the important factors to be considered at each stage of the process, to ensure compliance with data protection legislation and the human right to privacy.