Access to health records and proxy access

What is online access?

Online access allows these services:

• Booking and cancelling of appointments
• Ordering of repeat prescriptions
• Viewing your GP record
• Updating your personal information
• Send secure messages to us

To access this service, you will need a smart device (smart phone or tablet) or PC that allows access to the internet. You must be over the age of 13.

How do I register for access to online services?

To get started; download the free NHS app from your smart device or PC and follow the on-screen instructions in the app. You will need an email address and mobile phone or landline number to set up your NHS login. Please note that in order to verify your identity the app will ask for identification documents, just as we would at the surgery.

Click on the images below to download the NHS app. 

 

 

Full instructions can be found on the NHS app website: NHS App Website
We encourage using the facility to set yourself up via the app, however our reception team are able to assist when needed.

What is proxy access?

You can now request for somebody to act as a proxy on your behalf for your online services. This can be a parent, relative or person that cares for you.

Proxy access enables nominated persons to act on behalf of the patient, their online access will be tailored according to needs. Once a person has been linked as your proxy they can book appointments and order repeat medications on your behalf. It is your decision whether your proxy has access to your medical records.

It is up to the individual to decide if they want to give proxy access and not other members of the family. In exceptional circumstances it will be for the GP to decide whether proxy access is appropriate, in the individual’s best interests.

Before making your final decision it is important you understand what proxy access is. You should carefully weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of allowing proxy access.

Proxy access - Advantages to the patient

• When attending secondary care it might benefit the healthcare professional to see relevant information, for example your current medication list. This information is available to you via the App and also your proxy, if you allow them this.
• If you are currently in a residential or nursing home, proxy access can allow efficient prescription ordering by carers.
• Proxy users can book appointments for you easily through the app, saving a lot of time.

Proxy access - Disadvantages to the patient

• Forgotten history – there may be something in your medical history you had forgotten. You may be confronted with this information. If allowed your proxy user can also view this.
• Complex information – there will be abbreviations and technical terms. Yourself and your proxy will be able to view this information and it may lead to confusion. It is important you contact us if you don’t understand anything.
• Test Results – Results can be difficult to understand or may be abnormal and cause you to worry. Your proxy will also be able to view these results via the app. in some cases before you speak to a clinician about them.

What can I or my proxy see?

Currently online services allows you access to the following areas of your medical record;

• Medications
• Current Significant Problems
• Test results
• Allergies
• Vaccinations
• Your demographics (name, D.O.B, NHS number)

Please note appointments can also be booked through this service. You have the right to restrict what your proxy can view and if you wish, they can be restricted to only booking appointments.

What if I find an error in my medical record?

• If you find any errors in your medical record contact reception and they will share the appropriate forms for you to complete. This will then be reviewed by a GP.
• If you see somebody else’s medical information immediately exit the system and contact reception, this will then be escalated.

Is my personal information safe?

Online services via the NHS app is as safe as internet banking. We recommend you keep your passwords safe at all time. For password security advice please visit; https://www.cyberaware.gov.uk/passwords

The proxy feature has gone through rigorous analysis to ensure there are no data privacy risks.