Accessing your GP-held records

Accessing Your GP Medical Records via the NHS App or Website

From 31 October 2023, you can access your full GP medical record through the NHS app or NHS website if you have an NHS login.

What’s in Your Medical Record?

Your GP medical record includes:

  • Notes from your GP and healthcare team

  • Medicines prescribed to you

  • Test results, including hospital investigations

  • Allergies and vaccines

  • Medical conditions

  • Documents sent from hospitals, clinics, or other agencies, such as the police

Some of this information may be sensitive or personal.


Our Support and Your Choice

We support you having access to your record but want to keep your information safe.

You can choose to opt out if you do not want access.

If you are unsure, please speak to us before deciding.

Think about who else might see your medical information if you use the NHS app or website on a shared or unsecure device.

For example, if you are in a difficult or pressured relationship, you may prefer to keep your records private.

The government says we do not have to provide online access if you do not want it. That is why we ask if you want to opt out or delay access.


Levels of Access

You can choose what level of access you want:

  • Medication and allergies: Everyone can see this and order repeat prescriptions.

  • Coded record: See a list of medical problems and results.

  • Full record: See everything, including notes written by doctors, nurses, and others involved in your care.


Important Information

  • Some documents may include upsetting information, such as news of serious conditions.

  • Seeing test results online without explanation can cause worry, especially outside surgery hours.

  • People with mental health conditions may prefer not to see certain documents.

  • It is possible to ask to hide individual records or letters. Please talk to your GP about any concerns.

If you are at risk of harm because others might see your record, please tell us. We can take steps to protect you. This might include hiding sensitive information or disabling online access temporarily.


How to Request Access

The easiest way is to create an NHS login using the NHS app on a smartphone.

If you don’t have a smartphone, you can use a trusted family member or friend, or ask the practice receptionist for help. You will need proof of ID like a passport, driving licence, or a recent household bill.

To get your NHS login, you will:

  • Create an account with a unique email address

  • Verify your identity by confirming personal details

  • Complete a video check and upload ID to prove who you are (high-level authentication)

If this is difficult, your GP practice can help, but please try to sign up yourself first.


What Happens Next?

After setting up your NHS login, contact your GP practice to request access.

You will need to fill out a form with your NHS login details (email address).

We will then discuss access with you, explain the risks, and ask for your agreement.

Your request will be reviewed by the clinical team. They may contact you if they have any concerns.

There may be a short wait while we process requests, but we will do our best to provide access as soon as possible.


If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to a member of our practice team.