The NHS in England is using an electronic record called the Summary Care Record to support patient care. The Summary Care Record (SCR) is a secure, electronic patient record that contains key information derived from patients’ detailed GP records.
It is accessed in emergency and unplanned care scenarios, where such information would otherwise be unavailable.
About your Summary Care Record
Your Summary Care Record contains important information about any medicines you are taking, any allergies you suffer from and any bad reactions to medicines that you have previously experienced.
Allowing authorised healthcare staff to have access to this information will improve decision making by doctors and other healthcare professionals and has prevented mistakes being made when patients are being cared for in an emergency or when their GP practice is closed.
Other information such as significant medical history, care plans, patient wishes or preferences (and other relevant information) can be added with the consent of the patient.
Your Summary Care Record also includes your name, address, date of birth and your unique NHS Number to help identify you correctly.
Healthcare staff will have access to this information, so that they can provide safer care, whenever or wherever you need it, anywhere in England.
It is not compulsory to have a Summary Care Record.
Why Do I Need A Summary Care Record?
Storing information in one place makes it easier for healthcare staff to treat you in an emergency, or when your GP practice is closed.
This information could make a difference to how a doctor decides to care for you, for example which medicines they choose to prescribe for you.
Who Can See It?
Only healthcare staff involved in your care can see your Summary Care Record.
How Do I Know If I Have One?
Over half of the population of England now have a Summary Care Record.
Do I Have To Have One?
No, it is not compulsory.
If you choose to opt out of the scheme, then you will need to complete a Summary Care Record Opt-Out form to let the surgery know.
More Information
For further information visit the NHS Care records website.