Medical data are among the most sensitive types of information—especially in Germany, where their protection is taken very seriously. At the same time, they hold enormous potential: when used safely, in a consolidated and pseudonymized form, they can play a crucial role in improving our understanding of diseases and enabling more targeted treatments. To make this possible, well-trained professionals are needed to inform and guide patients comprehensively.
In this context, a project has been initiated at the University Hospital Heidelberg (UKHD) to develop training materials on Broad Consent. The Broad Consent Task Force, led by Prof. Dr. Christoph Dieterich, has focused on staff members who have not yet received training, providing them with practical materials to support and empower them.
The training materials are deliberately distinct from the MII materials: they are not intended for direct patient education but aim to transfer knowledge within the hospital. The content provides a solid introduction to the fundamentals, explains key terms in an understandable way, and conveys essential data protection aspects. In addition, the materials define specific tasks, outline the necessary documentation, and provide relevant intranet links.
These training materials enable staff to competently educate patients based on the knowledge gained. The materials, along with a questionnaire covering the most important content, are available on the hospital intranet. After successfully completing the training, staff receive a certificate and can then conduct and document patient education independently.
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