A summary care record is an electronic record which contains information about the medicines you take, allergies you suffer from and any bad reactions to medicines you have had.

Having this information stored in one place makes it easier for healthcare staff to treat you in an emergency, or when your GP practice is closed.

In an emergency, or when it is urgent, it is important that doctors caring for you know about you and any important medical conditions you may have, or medicines that you are taking.

Sometimes, if you are unconscious or having difficulty speaking, doctors may not be aware of important information about you. This includes the medicines you are taking, if you have any allergies and if you have ever had a bad reaction to something.

This information could make a difference to how a doctor decides to care for you, for example which medicines they choose to prescribe for you.

This means they provide you with safer care during an emergency, or when it is urgent. Summary Care Records are also useful if you need care when your GP practice is closed or if you are away from home in another part of England.

You may now consent to an Enhanced Summary Care Record, which can also include details of:

• Illnesses and health problems
• Past operations and vaccinations
• Treatment preferences
• Information about the kind of support needed
• Who should be contacted if more information is required

If you would like to opt out of this service, please complete our online form.