Accessing someone else’s information

How to access other people’s records

If you want to view medical records held by other NHS services you need to make a formal request under the Data Protection Act (1998) and apply in writing to the holder(s) of the records. For example, if you can’t access your GP records online and wish to see a paper version, write to your GP or the practice manager. If you want to see your hospital records, write to the hospital’s patient’s services manager or medical records officer.

To access someone else’s health records, you must

  • Be acting on their behalf with their consent, have the legal authority to make decisions on their behalf (power of attorney), or have another legal basis for access

More detailed information is provided in the article: Can I access someone else’s medical records?

Under Access to Health Records Act (1990), you can request to view the records of a deceased person. You can find detailed guidance on how to submit your request on the GOV.UK website.