Key Points

Please take a moment to review these points, reflect on their significance and consider how they apply to your own experiences.

Tick to confirm (optional):

• Do not release records to relatives without patient consent or another lawful basis; offer written consent or a SAR.
• Always verify identity and document verification steps before considering disclosure.
• Use minimum-necessary sharing (eg summary for direct care) and explain options to callers.
• Record the request, advice given, and any subsequent consent or disclosures in the patient file.
• For SARs: acknowledge promptly, verify identity, and clarify scope and preferred format.
• Assemble clinical notes, images and attachments; redact third‑party or exempt material where lawful.
• Comply within one month or document a lawful extension; keep a copy of what was provided and a disclosure record.
• Signpost patients to raise queries if records appear incomplete and log any follow-up actions.