BMA criticises move to share patients data

The medical records of people in the UK could soon be shared with private companies, the British Medical Association (BMA) has said.

Under the new Coroners and Justice Bill, currently going through parliament, the Department of Health would be able to share information from NHS databases with other departments and organisations in the private sector.

The legislative clause is designed to allow governmental departments to share information without having to see permission from parliament.

All medical records are being uploaded onto a national NHS database known as the Spine.

Officials from the BMA have criticised the move saying it could destroy the trust between patients and doctors.

The BMA is the doctors' professional organisation.

It is not responsible for registering or disciplining medical professionals. This is done by the General Medical Council.

BMA policies are decided by elected members of the organisation.