How the NHS and Care Services Use Your Information

Whenever you use a health or care service, important information about you is collected in a patient record for that service (when there is a clear legal basis for collection), in order to help with:

  • Improving the quality and standards of care provided
  • Research into the development of new treatments
  • Preventing illness and diseases
  • Monitoring safety
  • Planning services

Data is typically anonymised for research and planning; therefore, you cannot be identified, in which case your confidential patient information isn’t needed. You have a choice about whether you want your confidential patient information to be used in this way.

To find out more or to register to opt out please visit: NHS: Your NHS Data Matters

You can also find out more about how patient information is used at:

National NHS Data Opt-Out – Your right to withdraw consent

If you are happy for your data to be extracted and used for the purposes described in this document, then no action is required. If you do not want your information to be used for any purpose beyond providing your care you can choose to opt-out. If you wish to do so, please let us know so we can code your record appropriately. We will respect your decision, but in some circumstances, we may still be legally required to disclose your data.

There are two main types of opt-out: You can change your mind at any time.

Type 1 Opt-Out

If you do not want information that identifies you to be shared outside the practice, for purposes beyond your direct care, you can register a ‘Type 1 Opt-Out’. This prevents your personal confidential information from being used other than in particular circumstances required by law, such as a public health emergency like an outbreak of a pandemic disease.

Type 2 Opt-Out

NHS Digital collects information from a range of places where people receive care, such as hospitals and community services. If you do not want your personal confidential information to be shared outside of NHS Digital, for purposes other than for your direct care, you can register a ‘Type 2 Opt-Out’. For further information about Type 2 Opt-Outs, please visit the website: www.content.digital.nhs.uk/Information-on-type-2-opt-outs

To find out more or to register your choice to opt out, please visit www.nhs.uk/your-nhs-data-matters.