Identify Red Flag Situations

🚨 Recognising Red Flags: Data Breach Awareness in Healthcare

All staff in health and social care must be able to recognise red flag situations, particularly those involving the misuse or inappropriate sharing of personal data. Adhering to GDPR and NHS guidelines is essential for protecting patient confidentiality and maintaining public trust.

🔍 What Is a Data Breach?

A data breach is any incident where confidential personal data is accessed, disclosed, lost or shared inappropriately. This could be deliberate or accidental, but either way, it must be handled quickly and in line with legal obligations.

🧭 Your Responsibilities as a Staff Member

• Recognise potential data breaches
• Report suspected breaches to your line manager without delay
• Ensure that personal data is never shared without consent

📣 Reporting Obligations

If a data breach occurs, the organisation must:

• Notify the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) within 72 hours
• Inform the individuals affected promptly and sensitively

⚠️ Examples of Data Breaches

• Discussing a patient’s DNAR (Do Not Attempt Resuscitation) status with family members without consent
• Sharing confidential patient health information at a religious or community event
• Posting or discussing colleague information on social media

Always follow this golden rule: If in doubt, don’t share. Confirm consent and double-check before discussing any personal or medical information.