This webpage explains how to access, review and request changes to your medical records.

Under the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, you have the legal right to access and request corrections to your health records.

Accessing your records

You can access your GP health record through the NHS App or by signing in on the NHS website.

If you don’t have an account yet, you can create one.

To view your GP health record online, you must be:

  • registered with a GP practice
  • age 16 years or older.

When setting up your account, you’ll need to verify your identity to ensure your record remains secure.

If you need to see older information in your record (historic record information), you’ll have to ask your GP surgery to make it available online.

Read more: NHS.uk – View your GP health record

Your GP record – patient guide

Requesting a correction

If you find an error (e.g. incorrect dates or diagnoses):

  1. Contact your GP, outlining what’s wrong and what should be corrected.
  2. If agreed, a correction will be added to your record, though the original entry will remain for legal reasons.
  3. If your request for a correction is declined, you can ask for a statement of disagreement to be added to your record.
  4. If you’re still unhappy, you can raise a formal complaint or contact the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

Read more: MDDUS – Altering clinical records

A quick guide: how to request a change

  1. Identify the issue – Note the error in your records.
  2. Make your request in writing – Explain what should be changed and why.
  3. Wait for a reply – The healthcare provider must respond within one month.
  4. Keep records – Save copies of all correspondence.
  5. Request the addition of a disagreement note – If a correction is refused, request your viewpoint be added to your records.

If you’re not satisfied

If your request is ignored or your rights are not respected:

  • complain directly to the healthcare provider
  • escalate the issue to the ICO.

Read more: ICO – Make a complaint

You can also seek help from:

Your rights in summary

Although NHS services vary slightly across the UK, your fundamental rights as a patient remain consistent. These include:

  • Fair, respectful and safe care
  • Involvement in healthcare decisions
  • Access to, and correction of, medical records
  • Confidential handling of your personal data
  • Clear routes for complaints and feedback.

Posted 24th July 2025