
People should be given free online access to their medical records and should be able to download their medical history and view prescription and appointment details, according to the recommendations made by the NHS Future Forum, which is advising the Government on its health reforms.
The Government has given a strong indication that it is supportive of the new recommendations. Health minister Earl Howe said, "We fully support NHS patients having online access to their personal GP records. Our vision for a modern NHS is to give patients more information and control over their health. That's why the independent NHS Future Forum have continued to listen specifically on this issue and how we make it a reality for patients."
Currently patients can ask their GP for access to their records, but are required to give a valid reason for doing so.
These new reforms are expected to be implemented within 3-years.
Source: Medindia
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