P-71 Awareness, knowledge, and attitudes toward patient confidentiality among healthcare workers in Grenada

Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire to assess the awareness, knowledge and attitudes towards patient confidentiality of healthcare workers. The questionnaire was distributed both in person and online across public and private hospitals and clinics in the six parishes of mainland Grenada.

Results: In the study, physicians represented 38.2% of all participants; followed by nurses (30.9%), and certified nursing assistants (20%). Moreover, most participants (32.7%) have been in their role for less than five years. The study revealed that most healthcare workers in Grenada (95%), are aware of the term patient confidentiality, learning of the term mainly through school and on-the-job training. However, there are some misunderstandings about the concept. While over 85% correctly answered questions about consent, patient record access, and family rights, more than half were unclear about the legal governance of confidentiality, next-of-kin rights, and patients’ right to withhold information. In addition, 43% incorrectly believed that patient confidentiality is synonymous with patient privacy. These findings show there is a strong overall awareness but highlight significant gaps in knowledge and understanding of confidentiality concepts and practices. Furthermore, a Chisquared test (p=5.0116e-07) shows a significant correlation between sources of awareness and accurate differentiation between confidentiality and privacy.

Conclusion: The study found that healthcare workers in Grenada have a solid understanding of patient confidentiality but lack knowledge in areas such as the legal aspects and family access rights. This highlights the need for further training to ensure compliance and adherence to confidentiality policies, which impact patient trust and safety.