HIQA asks public to give feedback on a consent model for the collection, use and sharing of health information

The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) is asking the public for their feedback on its Draft recommendations on a consent model for the collection, use and sharing of health information in Ireland which will be submitted to the Minister for Health.

Sharing personal information in a secure and controlled manner is integral to providing health and social care. HIQA is developing these recommendations to inform national legislation, policy and strategy for health information as electronic health information systems are progressed in Ireland.

The development of health information-specific legislation, as well as the need for strategic leadership and governance for health information, are core requirements to achieve a robust national health information system in Ireland.

Rachel Flynn, HIQA’s Director of Health Information and Standards, said: “Health information is essential both for managing direct patient care and also for health service planning and management, policy-making and research.

“It is important that a consent model is put in place to ensure individuals are informed about how their information might be used, as well as the choices they have about this.

“These draft recommendations are based on international best practice and aim to ensure that the public is involved in all stages of the rollout of eHealth in Ireland and that a strategic approach is implemented to ensure personal information is processed safely and securely in line with individuals’ preferences.”

The paper makes 10 recommendations to outline the situations when consent is, and is not, required for the use of personal information in health and social care, as well as the need to establish legislative and governance structures, and technical and operational capabilities to support a consent model.

It also defines key health information concepts and outlines the need for significant public engagement in this area.

The draft recommendations have been published alongside an evidence synthesis document which provides an overview of the current health information landscape in Ireland, and a detailed review of consent models in other countries, which helped inform the recommendations.

Currently, the legislation for health information in Ireland is not fit-for-purpose, other countries have developed specific legislation or codes of practice to regulate the collection, use and sharing of health information, which creates a common understanding about how to best use and share information in the interest of patients and the public.

Ms Flynn continued: “We want to hear the views of the general public, including people using services, policy-makers, and front-line health and social care staff on these draft recommendations. The public’s feedback on the consent model is essential to ensure it is developed in line with their expectations and needs.

“It is also important that as eHealth technologies develop, and the potential to use and share health information increases, the rights of individuals in relation to their personal information is openly discussed and assurances provided that their information is used appropriately and shared securely.”

HIQA invites members of the public to provide feedback on the draft recommendations before the consultation closes at 5pm on Monday, 10 January 2022.

Following the public consultation, the recommendations will be revised. Once approved by HIQA’s Board, the final recommendations will be submitted to the Minister for Health and will also be published on HIQA’s website.

Read the draft recommendations and take part in the consultation on www.hiqa.ie.