Problems of confidentiality in reporting morbidity and causes of death

摘要

The author stresses that in the reporting of morbidity and causes of death, the confidential nature of the medical records must be respected, while at the same time sufficient and accurate information must be given for statistical purposes. Various practical measures are described. Where possible, data indispensable for general administration should be filed separately from those of exclusively statistical interest, for which it should also be possible to give a reasonable guarantee that their publication will not lead to any infringement of secrecy. Where guarantees cannot be given that confidentiality will be respected, medical practitioners may be reluctant to file a full report.