Policy guidelines of Health records

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If you wish to view your medical records, you should apply in writing to the holder of the record with proof of your identity. If records are held at your doctorâ€™s surgery, you should write directly to your GP or to the practice manager. If the records are held at a hospital, you should address the letter to your hospital Patients Services Manager or Medical Records officer. You are entitled by law to receive a response no later than 40 days after your application is received.

You will then be given an appointment to see your records; there may be a charge up to a maximum of Â£50 (Â£10 if held totally on computer: free if the record has been added to in the last 40 days). If you want a copy or printout of the information in your records, reasonable copying costs will be added. The copy should be written out in a form that is understandable to you â€“ i.e. â€“ complicated medical terms should be explained. If you still donâ€™t understand any part of the record, the health professional holding the record should explain it to you.

<b>Change of details:</b>

If you change your name, address or telephone number, your medical record will need to be updated. Telephone or write to your GP surgery or hospital (depending on where your records are held) to notify them of any changes. Reception staff will be able to update your records. Some hospitals and GP practices also have online forms for updating your details, which you can send electronically.