MDConnect Cookie Policy
MDBUDDY UK LTD
Effective date: 1 January 2026
Last reviewed: 4 April 2026
Next review due: 4 April 2027
1. About This Policy
This Cookie Policy explains what cookies and similar technologies are used on the MDConnect platform and the MDConnect marketing website at healthbymd.com/mdconnect, why we use them, and how you can manage your preferences.
This policy should be read alongside the MDConnect Privacy Policy, which explains how we collect, use, and protect personal data more broadly. Where cookies collect personal data, that processing is governed by the Privacy Policy.
MDBUDDY UK LTD ("we", "us", "our") is the data controller responsible for the cookies set through MDConnect. Our registered address is 427 Kings Road, Stretford, Manchester, M32 8LN. We are registered with the ICO under registration number ZB894415.
2. What Are Cookies
Cookies are small text files that are placed on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile phone) when you visit a website or use a web application. They are widely used to make websites and applications work efficiently, to remember your preferences, and to provide information to the operators of the site.
Cookies can be "first-party" (set by the website you are visiting) or "third-party" (set by a different organisation whose services are used on the website, such as an analytics provider). Cookies can also be "session" cookies (deleted when you close your browser) or "persistent" cookies (remaining on your device for a set period or until you delete them).
In addition to cookies, MDConnect may use similar technologies such as local storage and session storage within your browser to maintain your session and preferences while you use the platform. These technologies serve the same functional purpose as cookies and are covered by this policy.
3. Our Legal Basis for Using Cookies
Our use of cookies is governed by the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003 (PECR) and the UK GDPR.
Strictly necessary cookies do not require your consent under PECR. These are cookies that are essential for MDConnect to function. Without them, the platform cannot operate as intended. Examples include authentication cookies that keep you logged in and security tokens that protect against cross-site request forgery.
Non-essential cookies (such as analytics or preference cookies) require your consent before they are set. We will ask for your consent through a clear cookie notice when you first visit the MDConnect website or log in to the platform. You can change your cookie preferences at any time as described in section 7 of this policy.
4. Cookies Used on the MDConnect Platform
The following cookies and similar technologies are used when you log in to and use the MDConnect web application. These are first-party cookies set by MDBUDDY UK LTD.
4.1 Strictly Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for MDConnect to function. They cannot be switched off. They are set in response to actions you take, such as logging in, setting your preferences, or submitting forms.
Cookie NamePurposeTypeDurationsession_idMaintains your authenticated session while you use MDConnect. Without this cookie, you would need to log in on every page.First-party, sessionExpires when browser is closedauth_tokenStores your authentication credentials securely so the platform can verify your identity on each request.First-party, persistentDuration of login sessioncsrf_tokenProtects against cross-site request forgery attacks by validating that form submissions originate from MDConnect.First-party, sessionExpires when browser is closedcookie_consentRecords your cookie consent preferences so we do not ask you again on each visit.First-party, persistent12 months
4.2 Functional Cookies
These cookies enable enhanced functionality and personalisation within MDConnect. They may be set by us or by third-party providers whose services we have integrated into the platform. If you do not allow these cookies, some features may not function as intended.
Cookie NamePurposeTypeDurationuser_preferencesRemembers your display preferences within the dashboard, such as default views, filter selections, and table sort orders.First-party, persistent12 monthslocaleStores your language and regional formatting preferences.First-party, persistent12 months
4.3 Local Storage and Session Storage
MDConnect uses your browser's local storage and session storage mechanisms for the following purposes.
Cookie NamePurposeTypeDurationSession stateMaintains form data and navigation state while you move between pages within a single session, preventing data loss if you navigate away from an incomplete form.Session storageCleared when browser tab is closedUser interface stateStores dashboard layout preferences and collapsed or expanded panel states for a consistent experience between sessions.Local storageUntil manually cleared or overwritten
5. Cookies Used on the MDConnect Marketing Website
The MDConnect marketing website at healthbymd.com/mdconnect may use the following cookies in addition to those described in section 4.
5.1 Analytics Cookies
We may use analytics cookies to understand how visitors interact with the marketing website, which pages are most visited, and how visitors arrive at the site. This information helps us improve the website and the information we provide to prospective customers.
If analytics cookies are active, they are set only after you have given your consent through the cookie notice. Analytics data is collected in aggregate form and does not identify you personally.
Cookie NamePurposeTypeDuration_gaGoogle Analytics: Distinguishes unique visitors to the website by assigning a randomly generated identifier.Third-party, persistent2 years_ga_[ID]Google Analytics: Maintains session state and tracks page views across the site.Third-party, persistent2 years
If we do not use Google Analytics or if a different analytics provider is in use, this table will be updated accordingly. We do not use advertising cookies, social media tracking cookies, or any cookies that profile visitors for targeted advertising purposes.
6. Third-Party Cookies
MDConnect does not permit third-party advertising networks, social media platforms, or data brokers to set cookies through the platform or the marketing website.
The only third-party cookies that may appear on the MDConnect marketing website are analytics cookies (described in section 5.1 above), which are set only with your consent. Within the logged-in MDConnect platform, all cookies are first-party cookies set by MDBUDDY UK LTD.
If we integrate additional third-party services in the future that require cookies, we will update this policy and request your consent where required before those cookies are set.
7. How to Manage Your Cookie Preferences
7.1 Cookie Consent
When you first visit the MDConnect marketing website, you will be presented with a cookie notice that allows you to accept or decline non-essential cookies. You can change your preferences at any time by clicking the cookie settings link in the website footer.
Strictly necessary cookies on the MDConnect platform cannot be disabled because the platform cannot function without them. If you do not wish these cookies to be set, you should not use MDConnect.
7.2 Browser Controls
Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings. You can set your browser to block or delete cookies, or to alert you when a cookie is being set. The method for doing this varies by browser. The following links provide instructions for the most commonly used browsers:
Google Chrome: support.google.com/chrome/answer/95647
Mozilla Firefox: support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/enhanced-tracking-protection-firefox-desktop
Microsoft Edge: support.microsoft.com/en-gb/microsoft-edge/delete-cookies-in-microsoft-edge
Apple Safari: support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/safari/sfri11471
Please note that blocking or deleting cookies may affect the functionality of MDConnect. In particular, blocking session and authentication cookies will prevent you from logging in to the platform.
7.3 Local Storage and Session Storage
Local storage and session storage are managed through your browser's developer tools or privacy settings. Clearing your browser data will remove stored items. Be aware that clearing local storage will reset your MDConnect dashboard preferences.
8. Do Not Track Signals
Some browsers offer a "Do Not Track" (DNT) setting that sends a signal to websites requesting that your browsing activity is not tracked. There is currently no industry-wide standard for how websites should respond to DNT signals. MDConnect does not currently respond to DNT signals, but we limit tracking to the analytics cookies described in this policy, which are only set with your consent.
9. Children and Cookies
MDConnect is not accessed by children. The platform is used by Local Authority staff, Programme Provider staff, and Setting staff (teachers, teaching assistants, nursery managers). No child interacts with MDConnect or encounters cookies set by the platform. Accordingly, the cookie consent mechanisms described in this policy are designed for adult professional users.
10. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in the cookies we use, changes in applicable law, or updated ICO guidance. When we make material changes, we will update the effective date at the top of this document and, where appropriate, notify users through the MDConnect platform.
We encourage you to review this policy periodically. The current version is always available at healthbymd.com/mdconnect.
11. Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Cookie Policy or about how we use cookies on MDConnect, please contact us.
Data Compliance Lead: Dr Ramzan Mohammed
Email: mdconnect@mydentalbuddy.com
Address: MDBUDDY UK LTD, 427 Kings Road, Stretford, Manchester, M32 8LN
If you are not satisfied with our response, you have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) at ico.org.uk or by telephone on 0303 123 1113.
© MDBUDDY UK LTD 2026. All rights reserved.