The NHS in England is introducing a new computerised record system to help with emergency care.
The system is called the Summary Care Record. It is an electronic record and its aims to put all your medical details in one place.
It aims to help healthcare professionals get a patient's details more quickly and easily to aid safe treatment in an emergency or when your GP practice is closed.
The basic patient record includes information on allergies, medication and adverse reactions.
Further details may be added over time and it will be accessible to healthcare workers anywhere in England.
An e-record will soon be made for every patient and packs about it are being sent out.
However, some people are uncomfortable with having their information on a computer so they can choose to opt out of the system.
You must let your GP practice know by filling in and returning a form if you don’t wish to have a summary care record. Forms can be found on the NHS care records website, address below.
If you don’t do this, a record will be created for you and put on the computer system.
You can also change your mind at any time. If you choose not to have a summary care record but then change your mind later the NHS can still make one for you. Just let your GP practice know.
If you choose after we have made your Summary Care Record that you do not want it, you need to tell your GP practice. For more information about Summary Care Records and your choices:
