Confidentiality of data is extremely important to the operation and maintenance of the Registry. The Registry has developed and implemented formal policies, procedures and best practices that will safeguard the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of its data. This includes the conduct of personnel with regards to patient data as well as the protection of physical computer systems and buildings and equipment from fire, environmental hazards or intrusion. Processes have been put in place to guard against unauthorized access to data that are transmitted over the communications network.
Confidentiality policies, pledges and procedures are required in all phases of Registry operation in order to:
- Protect the privacy of the individual cancer patient;
- Protect the privacy of the facilities reporting the case;
- Protect the privacy of the physician responsible for the care of the cancer patient; and
- Provide public assurance that the data will not be abused.