Why we collect your information

The doctors, nurses and team of healthcare professionals caring for you keep records about your health and any treatment and care you receive from the NHS. These records help to ensure that you receive the best possible care. They may be written down in paper records or held on computer. These records may include:

• basic details about you such as name, address, date of birth, next of kin, etc
• contact we have had with you such as appointments or visits
• notes and reports about your health, treatment and care
• results of assessments
• relevant information from people who care for you and know you well such as health professionals and relatives

It is essential that your details are accurate and up to date. Always check that your personal details are correct when you visit us and please inform us of any changes as soon as possible.

How your personal information is used
Your records are used to direct, manage and deliver the care you receive to ensure that:

• the doctors, nurses and other health and social care professionals involved in your care have accurate and up to date information to assess your health and decide on the most appropriate care for you
• your direct care team have the information they need to be able to assess and improve the quality and type of care you receive
• your concerns can be properly investigated if a complaint is raised
• appropriate information is available if you see another team, or are referred to a specialist or another part of the NHS

SMS text messaging
When attending the Trust for an appointment you may be asked to confirm that the Trust has an accurate contact number and mobile telephone number for you. With your permission this can be used to provide appointment details via SMS text messages to advise you of appointment times.