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Protecting and using patient information: A manual for Caldicott Guardians

Part of the Government's commitment to implementing the recommendations of the Caldicott Committee's report is the requirement that NHS organisations appoint Caldicott Guardians of patient information. This manual aims to provide guidance on the key tasks that need to be addressed in the first year. A timetable of work for 1999/2000 is set out and the text of HSC 1999/012, which introduces Caldicott Guardians into the NHS, is reproduced. The manual then sets out guidance for management audits and improvement plans, for protocols governing the receipt and disclosure of patient/client information, and for controlling access to patient/client information. A summary of existing Department of Health guidance is followed by support and advice for Guardians.