Summary care records
It also means that information can be shared between practices, hospitals and other out-of-hours settings.
This ensures that when patients need emergency or out-of-hours assistance, these key details are available to the doctor or nurse attending them. The result is improved patient safety and care, and in some cases it could save lives.
Eventually, everyone in England will be given the opportunity to have a record created.
Who's taking part in the scheme in West Sussex?
The majority of GP surgeries in West Sussex are taking part in the scheme.
If you are registered with a West Sussex surgery taking part in the scheme (and will be 16 or over by the end of the consultation period) you will receive an information pack.
Your pack will contain:
- A letter explaining the Summary Care Records and details on where to get further information.
- A leaflet that explains how the Summary Care Record will be used to support your emergency care, how we will control who can see the information held, where you can get more information about Summary Care Records and your choices, and how to access leaflets in other languages and formats.
Please note that if your GP surgery is not taking part in the scheme you will not receive an information pack.
Choosing not to have a Summary Care Record
If you choose not to have a Summary Care Record, you will need to contact your GP practice and complete an opt-out form to confirm that you do not wish to have a Summary Care Record.
Using HealthSpace to keep track of your health information
Anyone living in England, aged 16 or over, with a valid email address can register for a HealthSpace account at www.healthspace.nhs.uk
HealthSpace basic account
A HealthSpace basic account allows you to store and keep track of your health information, such as your blood pressure, blood sugar levels, weight and peak flow readings.
HealthSpace advanced account
In the future you will be able to view your Summary Care Record using a HealthSpace Advanced account.
At present, registration for an advanced account requires the creation of registration offices that patients would attend with their identity documents. This is both inconvenient for patients and diverts public money from other areas.
An online registration scheme is planned that will allow patients to request an advanced account from the convenience of their home.
We believe that this will make the best use of public money and provide the most convenient process for you.
We will therefore delay the introduction of advanced accounts in West Sussex until this online registration service is available.
We will update this web page with how to register for an advanced account at that time.
