Patients can normally see their own computer record in the consulting room as the doctor or nurse use it. Patients can request access to their own written and computer records on request although these records may not be removed from the practice premises.
Assistance is given by the practice manager if access is required to the computer record and in this circumstance a member of staff will stay with you at all times to ensure confidentiality of other patients’ records.
If copies or a computer printout are required, a charge is made for this to cover costs incurred.
Access to medical records for people outside the health care team (or who are involved in the patient's clinical care) is only given with the patient's express written permission. District nurses and health visitors have limited access to the medical records of the patients in their care.