Dr. Peter Short explains how patients can opt out of having a Summary Care Record. 
Read the video transcript

It's easy to opt out of having a Summary Care Record. If you have recently received an information pack, tell your GP practice that you wish to opt out by filling in the pre-addressed opt-out form in the pack and:

• return it by post; or
• hand it in the next time you visit your GP practice.

If you don’t have an opt-out form, simply:

• call the information line on 0300 123 3020 to get one posted to you, or
• print off a copy of the opt-out form (PDF, 514Kb) and hand it in at your GP practice.

These are the only ways you can opt out of having a Summary Care Record. You cannot opt out by email or on the web because your GP practice needs to know that it’s you opting out (and not someone else who might try to opt out for you).

What if I change my mind about opting out ?

If you choose to opt out of having a Summary Care Record, and then change your mind later, we can still make one for you. You just need to let your GP practice know.

Also, if you choose to opt out of having a Summary Care Record after it has been made, we will hide your record so that it can no longer be viewed by NHS healthcare staff. We will only make your record available again if those who want to see it, ask to do so in writing and if an investigation has found it necessary, for example if there is a complaint about your treatment. 

You can ask to have your record deleted. However, this may not be possible if the record has already been used to give you care.

Whatever you decide and when, the NHS will always give you the best possible care.