How do I access my health records?

Under the Data Protection Act 2018, you have a legal right to access your health records.

If you want to see your health records, you should put your request in writing to Debbie Bird (admin manager) in the first instance to arrange a date and time to come in and read them. You do not have to give a reason for wanting to see your records.

Hospital Records

As well as having a copy of your health records, the surgery will also have a summary of any hospital tests, or treatment, that you have had. Any hospitals where you have had treatment, or tests, will also hold records. To see your hospital health records, you will have to contact the Hospital Trust where you were seen and received treatment.

Charges

Under the Data Protection Act 2018, initial access must be provided free of charge unless the request has malicious intent or is excessive, in which case a reasonable fee can be charged. Some types of records, such as x-rays, may be expensive to copy.

Power of Attorney

Your health records are confidential, and members of your family are not allowed to see them, unless you give them written permission, or they have ‘Power of Attorney’.

A lasting ‘Power of Attorney’ is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone to make decisions for you, should you become incapable of making decisions yourself