The de-identification of psychology case reports is crucial to protect the privacy and confidentiality of individuals. Here are some steps you can follow to ensure your case reports, MSE/Formulation, logbooks and other placement assessment documents are appropriately de-identified:
- Remove Personal Identifiers: Eliminate any information that can directly identify the individual, such as names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and other identifying information such as names of workplace, schools, community organisations etc.
- Use Pseudonyms: Replace real names with pseudonyms or initials. Ensure these pseudonyms do not have any identifiable connection to the individual.
- Generalise Demographic Information: Instead of providing specific details, use broader categories. For example, instead of stating “a 23-year-old female from Sydney,” you could say “a young adult female from a metropolitan area.”
- Omit Specific Dates or Use Alternate Fictional Dates: Avoid using exact dates that could be traced back to the individual. Use general time frames like “early 2023” or “last year.” Alternatively, use fictional dates to reduce the risk of re-identification.
- Remove Unique Characteristics: Exclude or generalise any unique characteristics or details that could potentially identify the individual, such as specific job titles, rare conditions, or unique personal stories.
- Review and Cross-Check: After de-identifying the document(s), review it thoroughly to ensure no identifiable information remains. It can be helpful to have a colleague review it as well.