By Sarah Klein
New legislation was announced Wednesday by the Manitoba government that would protect citizens’ privacy when it comes to accessing personal health information.
Under the legislation, it would be an offence for a public health employee to access health information without authorization or to falsify that information. Fines of up to $50,000 could be levied if an individual breaches the law.
“The Manitoba ombudsman made a recommendation to further strengthen the Personal Health Information Act and we are acting quickly to make these needed changes to ensure the privacy of Manitobans,” said Health Minister Theresa Oswald. “Employees will have to ensure they have the proper authorization before accessing someone’s personal health information, better protecting people across the province.”
The legislation would cover all types of personal health information, including data stored in electronic health and medical records, Oswald said.
