Request access to medical records
Use this document as a template to request medical records.
Accessing Medical Records
Everyone has the right to access their medical record. However, some parts may be redacted (removed) for safety reasons. To access your medical records, you will need to contact your hospital and/or GP, as these records are kept separately. To find your hospital or GP, click the relevant link below, and enter your postcode:
It is advisable to be specific about which time period you want to access your medical records for, as if you wish to access your full medical record it may take longer to process your request.
Access and one copy of your medical record is free, however if you require further copies this will incur a fee.
If you are looking to access the medical records for another person you will need to have power of attorney. The exception to this is that children require an authorised adult to apply on their behalf.
If you are looking to access the medical record of a person who is deceased you will need to be a personal representative, administrator or executor of their will. Personal representatives include:
- Most parents and guardians of a minor
- A person with power of attorney (for healthcare)
There are also exceptions when looking to access the medical record of a person who is deceased:
- Access will not be given if the deceased withdrew access.
- If a claim is in place as a result of the person’s death, you will only be able to see information that is relevant to the claim.
To get access you need to submit a Subject Access Request Form and provide proof of identity and of your relationship to the deceased.
Amending a Medical Record
If you think that the information on your medical record is incorrect, you can ask to amend your records. To have your records amended you will need to speak to the staff at your GP surgery or hospital. You can use the links below to identify your surgery or hospital, by entering your postcode:
In certain instances, it is also possible for a court to order that certain information be removed from your medical record.
