Using mobiles to take clinical photos ‘can cause legal issues for dentists’

Dentists have been warned against using mobile phones and other personal devices to take clinical photos due to the potential legal problems this can cause.

A new journal from the Dental Defence Union (DDU) has advised dentists to avoid using personal computers, tablets or smartphones to capture and store patient data, even if the information is deleted after being transferred to a patient record system.

David Lauder, a dento-legal adviser at the DDU, said: "Because of the legal considerations associated with the protection of personal data, and the potential for mobile devices to be lost or stolen, it would be wise to avoid taking clinical photographs on a mobile phone."

Instead, dentists are advised to ensure they have a dedicated clinical camera for use both in the practice and during home visits, which should be kept secure at all times.

Additionally, it was emphasised that a thorough information security policy should be put in place to protect patient data, with a specific member of staff designated to oversee data protection – particularly in the wake of the recent cyber attack on the NHS.

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