'Primary' and 'Secondary' Use of Electronic Health Data

the paper aims to provide an overall framework of the differetn electronic health data processing activities, distinguishing especially between 'primary' and 'secondary' use. Firstly, the article outlines the regulatory context that is still under development and critically examines the position taken on the subject by the Italian Guarantor. The, it illustrates the most problematic issues related to the secondary use of electronic health data like the processing involved in clinical trials. The purpose of the work is to increase awareness of the possible relationships that bind the use (primary and secondary) of electronic health data to both public and private interests.