u/WeirdF

There were a couple of posts last month (1) (2) about the ridiculous statement NHSE put out about accessing patient records, suggesting that we were not allowed to access notes to follow-up on patients or respond to complaints.

Thankfully, it seems someone at NHSE has seen common sense and the guidance has been updated.

The updated guidance confirms that access to records is lawful where there is a clear, necessary and authorised work purpose. This includes:

• Reflective practice and reviewing outcomes of patients whose care you have been involved in

• Morbidity and mortality reviews

• Clinical audit and quality improvement activity

• Education, training and teaching

• Complaint responses, patient safety investigations and legal processes

• Operational activities that directly support patient care