What is a summary care record?
According to the Care Quality Commission, the Summary Care Record (SCR) is “an electronic summary of key health information sent from the patient’s GP record.” It contains medication, allergies, and adverse reaction details updated in real time.
Key statistics:
- Over 55 million people in England have an SCR (96% of the population)
- Approximately 80,000 SCRs are viewed weekly in urgent and emergency settings
- Viewing SCRs significantly improves safety, quality, and care efficiency
Opting out of your summary care record
Patients may opt out if they wish. An opt-out form is available on the NHS website. Please return the completed form to the practice.
Important: If you opt out, healthcare staff may be unable to view your medication and allergy history in emergencies (such as A&E) or when your GP practice is unavailable evenings or weekends.