Medical Records in the Legal System and Data Protection

[CameronMorgan1987]

Hello,

I hope this questions isn't to specific and is appropriate for these forums.



I am carrying out research for my Computer Sciences Degree and I am writing a paper on the Data Protection Act.


I have read that medical records are confidential unless a court order is issued for there release.


Under what circumstances would a court order be issued to obtain the medical records for an accused in a criminal case.
Once obtained, how are they presented and do they still remain confidential.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Kind Regards
Cameron

[enquirer]

Re: Medical Records in the Legal System and Data Protection

The question seems impossibly broad.

[CameronMorgan1987]

Re: Medical Records in the Legal System and Data Protection

I thought that might be the case.

I'll rephrase the question. Why would a court/legal system need access to someone's medical record and breach confidentiality.