Access to Healthcare Records
Summary
Under the UK General Data Protection Regulation, Data Protection Act 2018, you have the right to apply for access to your records and in some case, records of other people as an authorised representative. This is known as a Subject Access Request (SAR)
The Access to Health Records Act 1990 (AHRA) governs the right of access to deceased patient’s health records by specified persons
Is there a fee?
The Trust will provide a copy of the information free of charge, however we reserve the right to charge a “reasonable fee” when a request is deemed manifestly unfounded or excessive, particularly if it is repetitive (copies of the same information).
How long will the request take?
You should receive access to your records within one calendar month (unless advised by court order) provided sufficient information to identify you is received with your application.
If the request is complex or numerous then this period can be extended by a further two months. If this is the case then we will contact you to explain why the extension is necessary
Will I need to provide proof of identity?
Identification checks are required by the Trust for security, this is to protect personal data from unauthorised access. Identification documents needed to access health records.
How to make a request
How do I make a request for a copy of my healthcare records?
You can get a copy of your health records by creating an account through our online portal: Account Signup.
Click get started online and follow the instructions to setup your account or login if you have an existing account. Requests are managed electronically and once complete you will be able to view your health record using a download function within the portal.
When making your request, please ensure the correct application type is selected. This will enable the team to process your request effectively.
If you are applying to access the records of more than one person you must complete a separate application for each patient.
How do I request access to the health records of another person?
If you are an organisation or representative, you should also use the online portal: Account Signup.
When making your request, please ensure the correct application type is selected.
If you are applying to access the records of more than one person you must complete a separate application for each patient.
User Guide explaining how to make a request
A user guide is available to help you through the process here.
Get Started Online
If you have difficulties in accessing the SAR Portal please contact the team on:
Telephone: 0191 21 37783 (lines open 07:30 to 16:30 excluding bank holidays in England)