Can I access a patients NHS record as part of a private GP consultation?

Working as a private GP in the UK offers a unique opportunity to provide personalised care to your patients, but it often raises questions about access to NHS patient records. Understanding how you can view these records can enhance the quality of service you provide to your patients.

Accessing NHS records with patient involvement

From November 2022, NHS practices are required to make patient records accessible online, barring a few exceptions. This development allows patients to access their NHS records using the NHS app or another health platform. As a private GP, if a patient wishes for you to view their record, they can easily show it to you via their device during the consultation. This is a straightforward way to ensure you're informed about their medical history, medications, and last consultations.

Accessing records through GP Connect via EMIS

EMIS is a widely-used electronic patient record system that integrates with GP Connect. As a private GP, you may utilise EMIS to access a comprehensive HTML version of a patient’s NHS record, provided you have appropriate permissions. This method is particularly reliable as it ensures an audit trail for access, promoting transparency and safety. EMIS Web is highly regarded for its robust features, including a rich medication module with clinical decision support, which can be very beneficial in private practice settings.

Using Accurx Record view

Approximately 70% of patient records are available through Accurx's record view service. To access a patient's NHS records using this channel, your practice needs to have the feature enabled, and you must have an NHS email address. During the consultation (either in person or virtually), the patient can permit you to view their records using a two-factor authentication process. This adds a layer of security while facilitating ease of access.

"We've really invested in trying to collaborate with local NHS GP services, as patients increasingly use us as an 'overflow' service. This means we try and access a patient's record to review recent NHS interactions, and we share our notes back with the NHS GP post-consultation, so they can pick up where we left off. This has helped align us, and improved overall patient satisfaction."

— Private GP

Collaboration between NHS and private GPs is steadily becoming a norm, aiming to deliver continuous healthcare. Leveraging systems like EMIS and platforms like Hero Health for online bookings and patient engagement can further streamline your practice and improve patient experiences.

Further Resources

For more information about using NHS systems like EMIS Web in your private practice, check out our dedicated article on EMIS.