Access to Your Medical Records
Patients can access their medical records under the terms of the Data Protection Act and also, if they wish, a copy of doctor’s letters relating to them.
Data Protection and Use of Your Information
We ask for information about you so that you can receive the best possible care and treatment. We keep this information, together with details of your care, to ensure that your doctor or nurse has accurate and up to date information. It also may be needed if we see you again.
There are times when we have to pass on information about you to other people such as hospitals, social services or the health authority. This is always done confidentially or by removing your identifying details when they are not essential.
Everyone working for the NHS has a legal duty to maintain the highest level of confidentiality about patient information.
If at any time you would like to know more about how we use your information you can speak to our practice manager.
Data Protection Act
The Practice fully complies with the Data Protection Act 1998. Under the Act patients have a right to be informed whether personal data about them is being processed and have the right of access to the data. Patients can review the data processed and formal applications for access should be made in writing to the Practice Manager.
A fee may be charged for this.
Access to Patients Medical Records
The Access to Health Records Act 1990 and the Access to Medical Reports Act 1988 gave individuals the right of access, subject to certain exceptions, to health information recorded about themselves, and, in certain circumstances, about others, within manual records.
Freedom of Information
The Surgery conforms to the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2000. We have produced a publication scheme in accordance with the Act, a copy of which is available from reception.
Practice Computer
Computerisation of medical records can produce benefits for preventative medicine and prescribing. All records are entirely confidential and are protected under the terms of the Data Protection Act.