§ Mr. Ron Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the current guidelines to hospitals on the disclosure of medical reports on patients to individuals and organisations other than 512W medical advisers; and in which directive of the Department these guidelines are set out.
§ Mr. MoyleGuidance to health authorities on disclosure of information about hospital patients engaged in legal proceedings is contained in memorandum HM(59)88 as modified by circular letters DS211/73 and DS179/74. I am sending copies of these documents to my hon. Friend. There is no departmental guidance on disclosure of medical reports in other circumstances. Such disclosure is a matter for the doctor concerned subject as may be appropriate to the consent of the patient.