How we use your medical records
Important information for patients
- This practice handles medical records in-line with laws on data protection and confidentiality.
- We share medical records with those who are involved in providing you with care and treatment.
- In some circumstances we will also share medical records for medical research, for example to find out more about why people get ill.
- We share information when the law requires us to do so, for example, to prevent infectious diseases from spreading or to check the care being provided to you is safe.
- You have the right to be given a copy of your medical record (see below)
- You have the right to object to your medical records being shared with those who provide you with care.
- You have the right to object to your information being used for medical research and to plan health services.
- You have the right to have any mistakes corrected and to complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office. Please see the practice privacy notice on the website or speak to a member of staff for more information about your rights.
- For more detailed information click on the 'GDPR - General Data Protection Regulation' Tab which also includes our Data Privacy Notice.
You can also download our GDPR practice leaflet here GDPR Practice Leaflet.
Your right to see your health records
A health record is any record of information relating to someone's physical or mentalhealth that has been made by (or on behalf of) a health professional. This could be anything from the notes made by a GP in your local surgery to results of an MRI scan or X-rays.
Health records are extremely personal and sensitive. They can be held electronically or as paper files, and are kept by a range of different health professionals both in the NHS and the private sector.
How can I access my records?
This is known as a subject access request (SAR).
To do so, you will need to make your request in writing (or by email) to the Practice Manager, Meadowview Surgery. Alternatively you can complete a form which is available from reception.
You do not have to give a reason for applying for access to your health records,however, to save time and resources, it would be helpful if you would inform us if you do not need access
to your entire health record - of the periods and parts of your health records that you require, along with details which you may feel have
relevance (e.g. consultant name, location, diagnosis).
There is no fee for making an SAR, but if manifestly unfounded or excessive, particularly if it is repetitive, a fee can be charged.
You should receive a reply to your request within 1 calander month.
You should also be aware that in certain circumstances your right to see some details in your health records may be limited in your own interest or for other reasons (e.g. to protect the privacy of third parties).
You also have the right to have information explained to you where necessary (e.g. medical abbreviations).