A NEW type of health record is being created for thousands of patients across Great Yarmouth and Waveney.Anyone registered with a GP from the age of 15 and a half will receive a letter from March 12 telling them about the new Summary Care Record created using GP notes.
A NEW type of health record is being created for thousands of patients across Great Yarmouth and Waveney.
Anyone registered with a GP from the age of 15 and a half will receive a letter from March 12 telling them about the new Summary Care Record created using GP notes.
Containing details of medication, allergies and adverse reactions to medication the record has been created so clinicians are able to get information in an urgent situation round the clock.
Summary care record project manager for NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney Jo Angell said: “There are many benefits of the records but primarily they aim to improve patient care where treatment occurs in settings currently without access to a shared record, for example A&E departments, out-of-hours services, walk-in centres and ambulance services.
“The record will only be accessible to NHS staff who have a legitimate relationship with the particular patient.”
The secure electronic records are currently being launched across the whole country on an assumed opt-in from patients.
Mrs Angell added: “Everyone registered with a GP will have a record created unless they opt out.
“Letters will be sent to all those registered with a GP informing them of the record and explaining the assumed opt in of the scheme.
Once you receive the letter you have 12 weeks to reply and say you would not like the record created.
However, if you do not respond, or you haven't had a letter and are registered at a practice then you need to get in touch to say you'd like to opt out. If we hear nothing - a record will be created.”
Patients can opt out at any time in the future but the records will provide a safe way of finding life-saving information during an urgent situation when the GP's notes may be unavailable.
For more information visit www.connectingforhealth.nhs.uk/systemsandservices/scr, call NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney Patient and Liaison Service on 01502 719501 or email gyw-pct.pals@nhs.net.
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