Medical records hold information about you. They are also sometimes called health records.
You'll have separate records for any NHS service you go to including your GP surgery, hospital, dentist or opticians.
How to get your record depends on which record it is.
How to get your GP record
Your GP record includes information like any conditions or allergies you have and any medicine you're taking.
Most patients will automatically be given access to more information added to their GP record from November 2022 onwards. This includes letters, test results and appointment notes.
Some people may also have access to information added to their GP record before this date.
You can access your GP record and nominate someone you trust to access it too.
There are 3 main ways to get your GP record.
Using your NHS account
You can get your GP record by logging into your account using the NHS app or NHS website.
First, you need to register for online services and prove who you are. You can do this when you create an account.
You'll need to ask your GP surgery for online access to your full record, or you'll only see your medicines and allergies.
Using other online services or apps
You might be able to use other GP online services and apps to get your GP record.
First, you need to register for online services and prove who you are.
You'll need to ask your GP surgery for online access to your full record, or you'll only see your medicines and allergies.
Some services and apps are only available in certain areas. Ask your GP surgery which one you can use.
Contact the online service or app you're using, or your GP surgery, if you have any difficulties.
Other services you can use to get your medical record
GP online services include:
By speaking to your GP surgery
You can ask for your GP record at your GP surgery.
How to get other medical records
For any other medical records, you need to ask for them at the NHS service you went to. This includes records like your hospital record.
Check the website for the NHS service you want your records for. You might need to fill out a form to ask for access.
Help with medical records
There's more information about health records in your NHS account.
You may also find the information below helpful.
How to correct an error in your medical record
If you think your medical record is incorrect, you need to let someone at the NHS service for your record know, for example your GP surgery. They will help you get it updated.
How to access someone else's medical record
Medical records are confidential, so you can only access someone else's record if you're authorised to do so.
Find out more about how to access someone else's medical record.
What to do if you do not want access to your GP record
If you do not want detailed information from your medical record to be made available (for example if you are worried someone might put pressure on you to see it), ask your GP surgery to switch off this option.
Page last reviewed: 7 July 2021
Next review due: 7 July 2024
