Health Information Privacy Code 2020

Overview of the Health Information Privacy Code 2020

The Health Information Privacy Code in New Zealand sets out rules and principles for the collection, storage, use, and disclosure of health information to ensure privacy protection for individuals.

Key Elements

1. Privacy Principles

   • The HIPC includes privacy principles that govern how health information should be handled, ensuring confidentiality and respect for individuals' privacy.
   • Principles cover aspects such as collection, storage, use, disclosure, and access to health information.

2. Consent Requirements

   • It specifies requirements for obtaining informed consent from individuals before collecting or disclosing their health information, ensuring transparency and autonomy.
   • Consent must be voluntary, informed, and specific to the purpose of information use.

3. Data Security and Storage

   • The Code mandates secure storage and protection of health information to prevent unauthorized access, use, or loss of data.
   • Providers must implement measures to safeguard information integrity and confidentiality.

4. Health Information Custodians

   • Defines roles and responsibilities of health information custodians who manage health information, ensuring compliance with privacy principles and Code requirements.
   • Custodians include healthcare providers, agencies, and organizations handling health data.

5. Compliance and Enforcement

   • The Code outlines compliance requirements for health information custodians to adhere to privacy principles and protect individuals' rights.
   • Includes mechanisms for enforcement, complaints resolution, and penalties for breaches of privacy standards.

The Health Information Privacy Code 2020 aims to ensure robust protection of health information while facilitating necessary data use for healthcare and research purposes.

Learn more about the Code