Which legislation governs the handling of personal data in dental practices?

The Data Protection Act governs the handling of personal data in dental practices, as it sets the legal framework for how personal information should be collected, used, and protected by organizations, including healthcare providers. This legislation ensures that individuals' rights to privacy and confidentiality are respected, which is especially critical in a dental practice where sensitive personal health information is collected and stored. The Act outlines the responsibilities of dental professionals in managing personal data, such as obtaining consent from patients, ensuring data security, and providing individuals with access to their own data. This legal framework helps to build trust between patients and dental practices, as patients can feel confident that their personal information will be handled with care and in compliance with the law.

In contrast, the Health and Safety at Work Act primarily addresses health and safety regulations for workers and does not specifically deal with personal data. The Care Act focuses on adult care services and does not encompass data protection matters. The National Health Service Act pertains to the organization and delivery of health services but does not specifically regulate the handling of personal data in dental practices.