Collecting and using Aboriginal health information in New South Wales

Objective: To describe the development of guidelines for the management of Aboriginal health information in NSW. The purpose of the guidelines is to p romote the ethical management of Aboriginal health information, with approp riate consideration for cultural factors. Methods: The guidelines were developed collaboratively by the NSW Aborigina l Health Partnership, which comprises NSW Health (the central administrativ e office, named NSW Department of Health, and the Area Health Services) and the NSW Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council (AHMRC), the peak b ody representing member Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services in NSW. A lengthy and comprehensive consultation process enabled a wide range of interested groups to have input into the guidelines. Results The project culminated in the production of the NSW Aboriginal Heal th information Guidelines, covering the collection, ownership, storage, sec urity, release, usage, interpretation and reporting of information, as well as issues of privacy and confidentiality The Guidelines formed the basis o f a formal Memorandum of Understanding, signed by the NSW Minister for Heal th, NSW Department of Health and the AHMRC, on 24 August 1998. Conclusions and Implications: The Guidelines make an important contribution to meeting a need for protocols on the collection, ownership and use of Ab original health information. Their production reflects successful collabora tion between government and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services in NSW. Future reviews of the Guidelines will ensure their effectiveness a nd consistency with Aboriginal community principles.