How to Access Your Medical Records For a Fostering Medical

How Do I Get Access to My Medical Records?

While it’s possible to view a summary of your most recent GP records online through the NHS App or website, this only gives a basic level of recent information, such as recent test results and consultations with your GP practice, or referrals they have made on your behalf, and any current medical conditions or medications you’re taking.

A fostering medical assessment is much more thorough than this, and the medical adviser undertaking it will need to know about things that won’t be included in your GP record, such as:

• Any previous medical conditions or symptoms that are now resolved
• Any operations or hospital admissions in the past
• The results of any referrals or investigations you’ve had outside of your GP practice (for example, appointments with hospital consultants, scans, or blood tests)
• Any outstanding referrals or investigations
• Specific records, such as maternity records or mental health records

For this level of information, you’ll need to access your full medical record. Here’s how you can do that:

Identify the Data Controller

This can sound daunting, but all it means is that you need to find out who holds the records you need. This might be your GP, or if you’ve had tests, appointments, admissions or surgery at a hospital, it will be that hospital trust. Other health professionals, such as your dentist and optician, for example, will hold their own separate records.

Make a Request in Writing

To access your medical records, you’ll need to submit a formal, written request, known as a Subject Access Request (SAR). In your email or letter, you should state that you’re making a Subject Access Request covered by GDPR and The Data Protection Act (2018).

If you only need certain records, you should specify which you need. For example, you might ask for all records relating to your hospital admission on a specific date. Otherwise, you can request that they provide any and all of your medical records that they hold.

Timescales

When you make a Subject Access Request, the organisation holding the records has 28 days to respond. So if you’re requesting access to your medical records for a fostering medical, it’s important to make your request as soon as you’re able to avoid delays.

Things to Be Aware of When Accessing Your Medical Records

• When requesting access to your medical records, you should be aware that:
• You have a legal right to your data
• You’ll need to provide valid photographic ID to prove that you’re entitled to the information
• Accessing your medical records is usually free, but in some cases, an admin fee may apply
• Any third-party information will be redacted from the records as you’re only entitled to view information that relates to you
• Sensitive information is also sometimes redacted if it’s thought that it may cause harm