The Summary Care Record (SCR) is a national NHS programme which allows information about you – such as allergies and medications – to be shared between clinicians to support urgent care across the country. Adding ‘additional information’ to your Summary Care Record, such as significant medical history, makes it a much more useful source of information for emergency departments and the ambulance service if they need to treat you wherever you are in the country.

More information is available at: www.nhs.uk/how-to-access-your-health-records

Please note that in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, additional information will be included in Summary Care Records for patients by default, unless they have previously told the NHS that they did not want their information to be shared. This will improve the flow of information across the health and care system, increase safety, and improve care.

More information can be found at: digital.nhs.uk/additional-information-in-scr

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.

You may need to be treated by health and care professionals that do not know your medical history. Essential details about your healthcare can be difficult to remember, particularly when you are unwell or have complex care needs. Having an SCR means that when you need healthcare you can be helped to recall vital information.

SCRs can help the staff involved in your care make better and safer decisions about how best to treat you.

You can choose to have additional information included in your SCR, which can enhance the care you receive. This information includes:

• Your illnesses and health problems.
• Operations and vaccinations you have had in the past.
• How you would like to be treated – such as where you would prefer to receive care.
• What support you might need.
• Who should be contacted for more information about 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?

If you are registered with a GP practice in England you will have a Summary Care Record (SCR), unless you have previously chosen not to have one. Over half of the population of England now have a Summary Care Record. You can find out whether Summary Care Records have come to your area by looking at our interactive map or by asking your GP. It includes important information about your health:

• Medicines you are taking.
• Allergies you suffer from.
• Any bad reactions to medicines.

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 our Summary Care Record Opt Out form.

For further information visit the NHS Care Records website.