I agree with Sara. I know people often assume from my name (Antoinette)
that I am afro-caribbean when in fact (as the old Billy Connolly joke
goes) I'm not so much white as pale blue! I find it very hard to
believe that medics would prefer misinformation over no information.
-----Original Message-----
From: This list is for those interested in Data Protection issues
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Sara Jane Newbon
Sent: 24 September 2004 15:52
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [data-protection] assigning ethnic origin to people
Hi,
Although such sensitive information can be processed for medical
purposes, I do not see how it would prove to be of much use.
John Smith may be a white/or Afro Caribbean name, likewise some Islamic
sounding names could be both middle eastern and Asian.
If they required this information could they not ask patients to fill in
questionnaire when they visits the GP and explain the purpose for
requesting
the information then, thus gaining explicit consent?
Im sure seconding guessing ethnic origin is not permitted by DP in any
form.
Regards
Sara Jane
----- Original Message -----
From: "Lisa Wingfield" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Friday, September 24, 2004 3:20 PM
Subject: [data-protection] assigning ethnic origin to people
I have been asked for an opinion on a research project which is soon to
be
taking place within the organisations I offer support and advice to. The
situation is:
GP practices want to use some software which uses patient's names to
assign
them individually with an ethnic origin. They then want to enter this
information into the GP system. They believe that this is acceptable
practice and does not breach the DPA. I have said that the data
quality/accuracy can not be guaranteed therefore would be in breach of
the
DPA, but in addition to this I not convinced about the ethical/legal or
moral issues sounding this. Is there any legislation which will prevent
them
from doing this?
Thanks
Lisa
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