Ethical Issues Raised by Data Linkage in the Health Services and Health Research Domain
Overview
Linking multiple data sets particularly in the health services and health research domains commonly involves linkage without consent. This project examines some of the justifications put forward in not seeking individual consent for linkage. The work attempts to clarify what is meant by the term public interest in health research and seeks to offer some practical measures for future linkage projects that may allay public concerns about privacy. The difficulties faced by researchers in obtaining ethical clearance for undertaking linkage are discussed as are issues facing institutional ethics committees in approving such research projects.
OPPE Staff
Lucy Carter
Status
In progress
Outcomes
A publication in a peer reviewed journal
Funding
OPPE
Contact webmaster: oppe@uq.edu.au
Last updated: 4 July
2003