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Common Health Questions

How do I access my health records?

You have a right to access your health records, under the Data Protection Act 1988. If you want to read your health records, you can ask in your GP surgery and arrange a time to come in and read them. You don't have to give a reason for wanting to see your records.

You may be asked to submit your request in writing. It's a good idea to state the dates you want to see, for example from 1995-1998 and to send the letter by recorded delivery and keep a copy. By law, you must receive a response to your letter within 40 days.

Your GP surgery has your medical records, as well as a summary of any hospital tests or treatment you may have had. Any hospitals where you have had treatment or tests will hold records of this. You can write to the medical records manager at the hospitals medical records department. Your optician and dentist will also hold records about you. You may need to show proof of identity before you are allowed access.

  • If your records have been updated in the last 40 days (i.e. you have seen your GP or other health professional in the last 40 days) you are entitled to see them at no charge.
  • The charge for a copy of your health records is £10 if they are held on computer.
  • For a copy of older records on paper, and results like X-rays you may have to pay photocopying charges up to a maximum of £50 (in total). Ask the surgery first what they charge before you apply.

Your family are not allowed to see your health records unless you give them written permission, or they have power of attorney.

If you don't have a GP, or you are applying on behalf of someone who has died, you should write to the Medical Records Officer at your local health authority.
If your GP or other health professional believes that information in the records is likely to cause you or another person serious harm, they may refuse you access to the records. 
 
For more help and advice, read the Heath Rights Information Scotland leaflet on accessing your medical records.

How do I make a complaint about my doctor?

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Last updated on 10 July 2007 11:43 AM

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