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):

• Relatives and carers requesting information require the patient's consent unless a lawful exception applies.
• Offer lawful, practical options: patient collects, written authorisation, or confirmed three‑way call.
• Always authenticate the requester's identity and use secure transmission methods when sharing records or prescriptions.
• Address the patient first; assess capacity for the specific decision and offer accessible formats and extra time.
• If the patient lacks capacity for that decision, share only the minimum necessary information in their best interests and document the rationale.
• Record accountability details: who requested information; identity checks; consent or capacity assessment; what, when, how and why it was shared.
• Use environmental aids (easy‑read leaflets, large‑print forms, quiet rooms) and include carers when the patient consents.
• Keep a clear audit trail of decisions and communications to meet legal and professional duties.