By Eddie Jones, Partner and Head of Department for Clinical Negligence, JMW Solicitors
Whenever you are seen by a healthcare professional, they will update your medical file with details about your condition and the care and treatment that you received. You may wish to access these records yourself for numerous reasons. Here, JMW’s medical negligence team take a look at your rights to access your medical records.
What are medical records?
Medical staff such as doctors and nurses create a note for each appointment the patient attends. The note details the reason for the appointment, treatment offered, medications prescribed, and referrals to other departments, such as hospital specialists, while also ensuring compliance with privacy regulations through the completion of online HIPAA forms. It is added to the patient’s medical records, which build up over time.
The records also contain any tests that have been requested and the results of any tests done previously, including x-rays and scans. The notes also include any letters to the patient or their GP from doctors and other medical professionals involved in their care.
Why would I need to access my medical records?
Some of the most common reasons for viewing them include improving your understanding of your condition or treatment and preparing to submit a complaint if you have issues with your medical care. You might need to check your records for other personal reasons or just be curious to look up your medical background.
Am I able to access my own medical records?
Yes, you are able to access your own medical records without justifying why you want to see them. You are also able to grant access to other people, such as a solicitor, if necessary.
Is there a reason that I would not be able to access my medical records?
Your request can be turned down if the records also concern another person.
How to correct an error in your medical records
If you believe your record is inaccurate, you can raise this with the healthcare provider responsible at your next appointment and ask for the error to be stated in the note of that appointment, who will assist you in updating it.
Can I nominate someone else to view my records for me?
Yes. You can designate another person, like a solicitor, to examine your records. You must submit written permission. Your medical records are strictly confidential without this consent. Unless they are a qualified healthcare expert or have legal authority to handle your affairs, no one should be able to see them without your permission.
How do I access my medical records?
From November 2022 onward, the majority of patients will have automatic access to more data that has been added to their GP record. Letters, test results, and appointment notes fall under this category.
Additionally, some people might have access to details that were added to GP records prior to this date.
Your GP record can be obtained in three different ways.
1. By speaking to your GP surgery
You can ask for your medical records at your GP surgery.
Contact the NHS if you are having trouble accessing your medical records or require further information on how to do so. You should be able to see a copy of your record within one month of requesting it, if not sooner.
You might not need to submit a formal application if all you want to do is access your medical information. There is no legal restriction for medical professionals showing you your own records informally. You can ask to view your records informally during a consultation or by calling the office or hospital to set up a time.
2. Using your NHS account
By logging into your account on the NHS website or app, you can access your GP record.
For online services, you must first sign up and provide identification. When you register for an account, you can do this.
To view your entire record online, you must request it from your doctor’s office; otherwise, you will only see your medications and allergies.
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