Access your medical records

Medical records hold information about you. They are also sometimes called health records.

You'll have separate records for any NHS service you go to including your GP surgery, hospital, dentist or opticians.

How to get your record depends on which record it is.

Your GP record includes information like any conditions or allergies you have and any medicine you're taking.

Most patients will automatically be given access to more information added to their GP record from November 2022 onwards. This includes letters, test results and appointment notes.

Some people may also have access to information added to their GP record before this date.

You can access your GP record and nominate someone you trust to access it too.

You can get your GP record by logging into your account using the NHS app or NHS website.

First, you need to register for online services and prove who you are. You can do this when you create an account.

Things to consider before applying for online access

Before you apply for online access to your medical record, there are some other things to consider:

Forgotten history

There may be something you have forgotten about in your record that you might find upsetting.

Abnormal results or bad news

You may see something that you find upsetting to you.  This may occur before you have spoken to your doctor or while the surgery is closed and you cannot contact them.

Choosing to share your information with someone

It’s up to you whether or not you share your information with others – perhaps family members or carers.  It’s your choice, but also your responsibility to keep the information safe and secure.

Coercion

If you think you may be pressured into revealing details from your patient record to someone else against your will, it is best that you do not register for access at this time.

Misunderstood information

Your medical record is designed to be used by clinical professionals to ensure that you receive the best possible care.  Some of the information within your medical record may be highly technical, written by specialists and not easily understood.  If you require further clarification, please contact the surgery for a clearer explanation.

Information about someone else

If you spot something in the record that is not about you or notice any other errors, please log out of the system immediately and contact the practice as soon as possible.