Agup, Rolly Melendres

Abstract: roduction: Privacy is a fundamental right that is crucial in healthcare in order to protect sensitive patient information. This study assessed the extent of nurses' compliance with RA 10173 (Data Privacy Act) in Level II government hospitals in Region I, Philippines, addressing privacy challenges and insider threats in safeguarding personal data amidst modern technological advancements. Objectives: This study explored nurses' awareness, compliance, and challenges with the Data Privacy Act, emphasizing their responsibility to protect patient data. Methods: This descriptive-correlational study surveyed 469 nurses in 5 government hospitals across Region I, Philippines, assessing their socio-demographic profile, awareness, compliance, and challenges encountered in adhering to the provisions of RA 10173. Results: The nurse respondents are highly aware and strictly adhere to protecting patients' privacy. They, likewise, agree that they are facing substantial challenges in complying with the Data Privacy Act. Moreover, there is a significant relationship between employment status and awareness of RA 10173, number of training and compliance, and between awareness, compliance, and challenges, with varying significance across demographic factors. Conclusions: Nurses' awareness significantly influenced compliance with RA 10173, with challenges like lack of training and administrative support impacting implementation.

Keywords: RA 10173, Privacy and Confidentiality, Data Subject

SDG: SDG 3, SDG 4, SDG 9, SDG 16