... To think this isn't a data protection issue?

[TenForward82]

First World problems, I'm aware. But just rang my GP to see if my DH's prescription is ready to collect, and was told by receptionist that they can't tell me that information due to data protection. FWIW prior to saying this she asked me for his name, his DOB, and the first line of his (our) address. Then said no as it's a data protection issue, "since always" apparently.

Is this accurate? And how is it any different from me going into the gp and asking for his script, and them giving it to me, which I've done before with no issue?

Well, you've all given me food for thought, thank you. I feel less irritated by it now!

I have picking up a repeat prescription for DH for years. Data protection has never been mentioned..... ever.

Most people seem to think a third party giving out basic information such as their name and the fact they're alive is a huge breach of data protection these days. So I can't really blame her but I think people are over the top.

It's very stupid when the receptionist has already breached by confirming by verifying his name, DOB and address that he is registered at that Surgery and then refusing to tell op if the prescription is ready. Where do you draw the line?

So how come DH can pick up my prescription, take it to the pharmacy and collect the medication for me? The prescription goes directly now but he still collects the meds for me.

So recently we have had issues with patients sending family member to get a prescription. Then complaining family member knows their personal info. As doctor or nurse may put instruction such as "book a depression review prior to requesting more medication".
It maybe to prevent this. They may have checked on your husbands notes using details you provided incase he has left express wishes for you to deal with issues for him. In absence of this I think they were correct (but absolutely see why it's frustrating!)

AngelinaNeurosurgeon Yes I do, and I would always process as permitted by the signed client consents have have in place.

I know enough to say that poor training, poor process and poor systems have a lot to answer for with respect to GDPR, of course the recptionist did the right thing in not disclosing - but the purpose of GDPR is not to stop people getting medicine.

Can the patient consent to prescription information being shared with the op? Does this consent need to be written or verbal? Is there a system in place to ensure this is recorded? How often does this need to be revalidated? Is there a policy held by the practice?

In every practice I've seen reception are overworked, with shoddy systems - so that means no disclosure (quite correctly), doesnt make it the right way to do things!