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Information Disclosure - Medical Records

Overview

PCSE receive requests from a range of individuals and organisations to access GP medical records.

As the data holder for NHS England, PCSE must ensure that the requestor has valid and reasonable grounds on which to make a request for the information.

More information

What happens next?
  1. We will review your application in accordance with NHS information disclosure guidelines
  2. If any further information or documentation is required, we will contact you to request this
  3. Upon receipt of a complete request, a decision on disclosure will made, and one of three actions will be taken:
  • the requested information may be disclosed to you via secure email,
  • the requested information may be declined if this does not meet disclosure criteria
  • or in some circumstances your request may be forwarded to the current registered GP of the patient for them to review your request and respond directly.
  1. Your request will be complete

You can find out more about access NHS England encrypted emails here.

What information do I need to provide?

With any request, we will need to provide details about the patient whose record they are submitting a request for, such as the patient's name and date of birth. Their NHS number and address should also be provided if known.

You may also need to tell us the reason for the request, for example, safeguarding, patient care, investigation etc.

If required, you may need to attach the relevant supporting evidence with their application.

How long will it take?

Please note that information requests must comply with the appropriate legislation and can take up to 40 days to process.

If you would like to make a submit a paper Access to Health Records request, click here