What is the national data use opt out?

NHS Digital have rolled out a national data opt out that allows patients to choose how their confidential patient information can be used. This is due to plans to use patient data for purposes beyond their individual care and treatment – specifically for research and planning across the NHS.

If patients do not want their data to be used in this way, they can opt out. National data opt outs can be set by patients themselves. There is no need to contact a GP practice.

The easiest way is to download the NHS app and do it through that, but all of the ways that a patient can opt out are outlined here.

NHS Digital recently confirmed that the deadline to opt out has been extended to 30 September 2021.

Is this national opt out linked to One Health and Care - Integrated Care Record?

The national data opt out is not linked to the Integrated Care Record.

The Integrated Care Record is a system that allows clinicians to share patient records, linking a patients treatment records across health and social care organisations and improving the care that they can deliver.

Patient records in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin will soon be available electronically for health and social care practitioners to view. These records will be ready to go live later this summer.

This means a doctor in a hospital, or a paramedic who attends a 999 call will be able to access the same crucial information as a GP when they need it. In some situations, knowing details of any allergies, medications or long-term conditions could potentially save lives.

Raising an objection

It’s important to understand that these are two different things.

The Integrated Care Record will only use patient data to improve the care provided to patients and the public.

If you do not want to your data to be viewed in the Integrated Care Record then you can raise an objection. To do this, you can contact your GP practice and they can record your objection for you.