In 2007 the NHS will begin to change the way it stores and shares patient health records in England. New systems will be introduced which will over time allow doctors to access and share an individual's health information more quickly and easily than is currently the case.
Please see the Information Commissioner's view of the changes to how health records are maintained as well as details on the way these will be introduced for more information.
The General Medical Council, Information Commissioner and the Department of Health have agreed a joint statement to ensure that all those who have access to patient information in the course of their work are clear about what is expected of them. This statement can be accessed at http://www.connectingforhealth.nhs.uk/jointguidance250407.