BMA guidance

Giving patients access to medical reports

Steps for doctors to take when a patient asks to see their medical reports.

Location: UK
Audience: All doctors
Updated: Wednesday 2 June 2021
Topics: Ethics, GP practices
Justice scales article illustration

Patients have the right to see reports written about them by a doctor with whom they have a 'normal' doctor-patient relationship.

 

What you'll get from this guide

  • Be taken through the consent process.
  • Learn about patients' rights.
  • Your duties plus those of insurance companies or employers who are seeking the reports.
Need help? For questions about any aspect of your working life, our advisers are here to help you. Opening times: 8am - 6pm Monday to Friday (excluding UK bank holidays)
Topics
  • Legislation
  • Consent
  • Individuals' rights
  • Seeing the report
  • Amendments
  • Fees
  • Withholding information
  • Doctors' responsibilities
  • Failure to comply with the legislation