What is the purpose of a privacy impact assessment?

The purpose of a privacy impact assessment is to evaluate how personal data is collected, stored, protected, and shared. This assessment helps organizations identify and mitigate potential privacy risks associated with handling personal information, particularly in healthcare settings where sensitive patient data is involved. By conducting a privacy impact assessment, organizations can ensure that they comply with relevant privacy laws and regulations, safeguard patient confidentiality, and promote the responsible use of data.

This assessment plays a critical role in fostering trust between healthcare organizations and patients by demonstrating a commitment to privacy and data protection. It also aids in developing policies and procedures that respect individuals' rights concerning their personal data, thereby enhancing the overall security and integrity of the information management processes within healthcare institutions.