Why do I need a Summary Care Record?
Most people have a Basic Summary Care Record which lets authorised healthcare staff treating you anywhere in the NHS across England to securely access key health information about your current medications, allergies and sensitivities to medicines.
Some additional information can be accessed with your permission through an Enhanced Summary Care Record.
Your Enhanced Summary Care Record contains more details about your long term conditions, medications, relevant medical history and personal preferences regarding you healthcare needs.
This allows ambulance staff, 111 service or hospital staff anywhere in England to access vital health information about you, which could help them treat you more quickly and effectively without you having to remember all of the details of your past care.
It is quick, safe and secure for health staff to access your Enhanced Summary Care Record, but your consent is needed to activate this part of your record. Please see our consent form.
Do I have to have one?
No, it is not compulsory. For further information, please the NHS care records website.
