Thanks to UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), you are able to request copies of all of your medical records, sometimes called health records, free of charge. This request may be referred to as a subject access request (SAR). There may be a charge if your request is considered excessive; for example, if you’re requesting information that has already been provided in the past. Otherwise, access to your health data should always be free.

How to request access to your medical record

You must submit separate applications for each provider you want records from. I know, annoying. You should be able to find the application online, simply by searching for the name of the hospital, GP, dentist, optician etc + “medical record access”. If you cannot find the application online for your hospital, you will need to contact the records manager or patient services manager at the relevant trust.

Applications can be submitted via email or by post. The return address should be included on the application form. You must also submit proof of identity (ID).

Once your application has been received, your records should be delivered to you within one calendar month.  

I recently filled in forms for three trusts that have been involved in my care. All three accepted the same types of ID, so I sent my completed applications, an image of my passport, and a bank statement, to the email addresses provided on the forms.

What information is included in medical records

You should be able to choose the type of information you would like to receive, and the format it is delivered in. Options may include paper copies, a CD, or an online portal. Radiology images and reports may be optional.

Why accessing your medical record is useful

There are many reasons people might want access to their medical records.

You might simply want to build your health records so you can access them at any time for reference.

You might want to build a brief overview of your health, including significant dates, diagnosis, surgeries, medication changes etc. This can help enormously if you’re meeting with a healthcare professional that does not know you and your previous medical history. Particularly if your history is complex.

Being able to view previous test results might be beneficial if you regularly have the same tests. For example, in IBD, knowing what your baseline calprotectin or CRP levels are could help you understand what future results mean in terms of flares.

You might want to check what a particular healthcare professional (HCP) has written about you if you’re feeling particularly unheard by someone.

Certain types of health information can be useful in circumstances when “evidence” is required. For example, a personal independence payment (PIP) application or when applying for a blue badge.

Protecting your mental health

It’s worth acknowledging that accessing your medical records might be stressful, or even triggering.

You might not be able to fully understand your records, which can be stressful when you are trying to make sense of HCP notes and results. Notes are often written for other healthcare professionals to understand, not taking patient understanding into consideration.

Some of your medical records might refer to traumatic events that you have experienced. If you’re struggling mentally, check out this list of mental health resources. There’s everything from crisis support to self-help, text services, and apps!