Opinion of physiotherapists on the impact of the work of the Data Protection Officer on the security of patient data

Damian Durlak

Damian Durlak – Opinion of physiotherapists on the impact of the work of the Data Protection Officer on the security of patient data. Fizjoterapia Polska 2021; 21(5); 32-37

Abstract
Introduction. Due to constant need for protection of patients’ personal data and for up-to-date knowledge about personal data protection law and Data Protection Officer’s (DPO) role in healthcare it is crucial for physiotherapists that work in their profession to have actual knowledge about the law and individuals they can ask for help with data protection issues.
Aim. The aim of this research was to assess whether there exists a statistically important correlation between respondents’ sociodemographic characteristics and their opinions and knowledge about personal data protection law and DPO’s functions.
Methods. An author’s custom survey form was used. The survey was conducted on a group of 101 physiotherapists actively working in their profession.
Results. Physiotherapists questioned felt the need to refresh their knowledge about medical law. They did not have faith in DPO regarding his possibility to improve data security and quality of services offered. At the same time, they witnessed data security breach. Most of the variables used were statistically significantly correlated.
Summary. Education programs concerning personal data protection, medical law and DPO’s roles should be conducted at medical facilities. Employees’ higher knowledge about this topic allows to secure both physiotherapists’ and patients’ interests.
Key words:
physiotherapists, Data Protection Officer, personal data, patients’ medical data