How the NHS Keeps Your Data Safe

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Your health information is important for your care and for improving NHS services. Here’s what you need to know:

Why is your data used?

To make sure you get the right treatment and care.
To improve health services and support research that benefits everyone.

What are the risks?

No system is completely risk-free, but the NHS uses strong security measures to protect your data.
Main concerns include privacy, loss of control, and cyber attacks. The NHS works hard to reduce these risks.

Your choices

For your direct care, NHS staff can access your information without asking each time – this is called implied consent.
You can choose whether your confidential information is used for research or planning by using the National Data Opt-Out.

Who can access your data?

Mostly NHS staff involved in your care.
Researchers may access data for approved studies, but strict rules apply.
Private companies can only use data for public benefit and under legal agreements.

Your rights

You can view your GP records online or through the NHS App.
Your data is protected by law and cannot be shared with employers or police without your consent (except in very rare cases).

How is data kept secure?

Digital records are safer than paper because they can be encrypted and access is controlled.
NHS organisations follow strict guidelines called Caldicott Principles to keep your information confidential.

Why does this matter?

Without data, care could be delayed or unsafe.
Using data responsibly helps save lives and improve health for everyone.

For more details, visit Understanding Patient Data or use the ‘Contact Us’ page to speak to the management team.

Published: Dec 1, 2025