There is a Central NHS Computer System called the Summary Care Record (SCR). It is an electronic record which contains information about the medicines you take, allergies you suffer from and any bad reactions to medicines you have had.
Why do I need a Summary Care Record?
Storing information in one place makes it easier for healthcare staff to treat you in an emergency, or when your GP practice is closed.
This information could make a difference to how a doctor decides to care for you, for example which medicines they choose to prescribe for you.
Who can see it?
Only healthcare staff involved in your care can see your Summary Care Record.
How do I know if I have one?
All patients registered at the surgery have a Summary Care Record, unless you have opted out of having one.
Do I have to have one?
No, it is not compulsory. If you choose to opt out of the scheme, then you will need to complete a form and bring it along to the surgery. You can use the form here.
However, as a surgery we recommend you to not only have a summary care record but to also have additional information in your summary care record. The reason being that the more information another NHS Organisation has about you, the better they are able to treat you.
Additional information in your summary care record means that not only can the person treating you see your medications, your allergies and adverse reactions but they can then also see a list of your problems, your immunisations and other relevant information to enable them to treat you better.
Ultimately, the choice is yours and you do have the option to opt-out of this as explained above.
More Information
For further information visit the NHS Care records website.