Access to medical records
The NHS wants to give people better ways to see their personal health information online. We know that people want to be able to access their health records. It can help you see test results faster. It also lets you read and review notes from your appointments in your own time.
We're now letting you see all the information within your health record. If you are over 16 and have an online account, such as through the NHS App, NHS website, or other GP online services and apps, you will now automatically be able to see all future information entered on your medical record. Some people can already access this feature, this won't change for you.
This means that you will be able to see records from your appointments, as well as test results and any letters that are saved on your records. This only applies to records from your doctor (GP), not from hospitals or other specialists, although you will be able to see any letters that hospitals or specialists send to your doctor (GP). You will only be able to see information from [insert date that your practice will make the change]. For most people, access will be automatic, and you won't need to do anything.
Your doctor (GP) may talk to you to discuss test results before you are able to see some of your information on the app. Your doctor (GP) may also talk to you before you are given full record access to make sure that having access is of benefit to you. If you are concerned that seeing your records is not right for you, you can opt-out from this by letting our reception know.
These changes only apply to people with online accounts. If you do not want an online account, you can still access your GP health record by requesting this information via reception . The changes also only apply to personal information about you. If you are a carer and would like to see information about someone you care for you will require proxy access, please speak to reception staff.
The NHS App, website and other online services are all very secure. You'll need to make sure you protect your login details. Do not share your password with anyone as they will then have access to your personal information.
If you do not want to see your health record, or if you would like more information about these changes, please speak to your GP or reception staff. You can also read more by going to www.nhs.uk/gp-record.
What's changed
You will now be able to see all the information within your health record automatically, as of the 18th of October 2023.
If you are over 16 and have an online NHS account, such as through the NHS App or NHS website, you can now see all your notes from your GP.
For most people, access will be automatic and you won’t need to do anything.
What health information you can see
You will be able to access:
- notes from GP consultations
- appointments
- test results
- medication
- any letters saved on your records
Privacy advice
If you do not want to see your health record or if you have any concerns, please talk to your GP to opt-out.
The NHS app and website are secure so no one is able to access your information except you.
If you do not have the NHS app or an online account
These changes only apply to people with the NHS app or an online NHS account.
If you do not want an online account, you can still access your health records by asking at reception.