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 1st November 2023. For most people, access will be automatic, and you will not 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 should speak to your practice.
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, speak to reception staff.
The NHS App, website and other online services are all very secure. You will 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 know or suspect that your record has been accessed by someone that you have not agreed should see it, then you should change your password immediately. If you print out any information from your record, it is also your responsibility to keep this secure. If you are at all worried about keeping printed copies safe, we recommend that you do not make copies at all.
If you do not want to see your health record please Send a Message – Well Street Medical Centre. If you would like more information about these changes, please speak to your reception staff. You can also read more by going to www.nhs.uk/gp-record.
If you wish to, you can request access to view your medical records online through the NHS App. As a minimum, this will include access to view all the clinically coded information in your record, such as problems, consultations, medication, test results, immunisations and allergies.
Being able to view your record online might help you to manage your medical conditions. You may also find it useful to be able to access information in your record that you may need, such as your medication or immunisation history.