I want to see my medical or care records
You have the right to a copy of your own records. It's usually free, and the provider normally has one month to respond.
The interactive version is available in 6 languages and Easy Read. It includes a ready-made letter you can fill in.
Your rights
- A copy of your health and care records (a subject access request).
- A response within one month. This can be extended by up to two more months for complex requests.
- Usually free of charge.
- To ask for inaccurate information to be corrected.
- To apply for a deceased person's records if you are their personal representative or have a claim arising from their death.
What to do next
- Send your request in writing to the GP practice, hospital trust or care provider.
- Say which records and dates you need. That speeds things up.
- Bring or send ID if asked.
- If they don't respond, you can complain to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).
Say this
“I'm making a subject access request under Article 15 of the UK GDPR for a copy of my records.”
The law behind it (England)
- Data Protection Act 2018 & UK GDPRUK GDPR Article 15 right of access, Article 16 rectification
- Access to Health Records Act 1990records of deceased people
Elsewhere in the UK
- Scotland
- The UK GDPR applies UK-wide.
- Wales
- The UK GDPR applies UK-wide.
- Northern Ireland
- The UK GDPR applies UK-wide.
Easy Read
What you need to know
- Services keep records about your health and care.
- You have the right to a copy.
- It is usually free.
- They should reply within 1 month.
What you can do
- Use our records letter.
- Say which dates you need.
Last reviewed: November 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. How we check our information.