Privacy Policy
General Practice Data for Planning and Research (GPDPR)
NHS Digital collects information from GP practices to help plan, improve, and deliver safe and effective healthcare services. Until recently, this was done through the General Practice Extraction Service. This system is now being replaced by a new service called General Practice Data for Planning and Research (GPDPR).
The GPDPR service allows NHS Digital to collect pseudonymised patient data (data that does not directly identify you) so that planners and researchers can better understand health needs and improve services for patients across the NHS.
The NHS requires high-quality information to ensure that services are safe, effective, and meet the needs of the population. This data collection supports improvements in health and care for everyone. GP practices already share data for these purposes, and this updated system is designed to make the process more efficient and secure.
By using this system, GP practices can focus on providing direct patient care, while NHS Digital ensures that access to patient data is carefully controlled and only shared where there is a legitimate need to improve health and care services.
Your Choice – Opting Out of Data Sharing (Type 1 Opt-out)
If you do not want your identifiable patient data to be shared outside of your GP practice for purposes other than your own direct care, you can choose to opt out. This is known as a Type 1 Opt-out.
Type 1 Opt-outs have been available since 2013. In the future, this option may be replaced by the National Data Opt-out, which covers the wider health and care system. If any changes are made, patients who have registered a Type 1 Opt-out will be informed.
At present, NHS Digital will not collect patient data from anyone who has a Type 1 Opt-out in place. If this policy changes, you will be notified.
How to Register a Type 1 Opt-out
If you would like to register a Type 1 Opt-out, please follow these steps:
- Download the Type 1 Opt-out form from https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/about-the-nhs/opt-out-of-sharing-your-health-records/
- Complete the form and return it to the practice by post, email, or in person
- Alternatively, you can contact us and request that a form be sent to you
You can register a Type 1 Opt-out at any time. You can also change your mind and withdraw your opt-out whenever you wish. If you already have a Type 1 Opt-out registered with the practice, your data will not be shared with NHS Digital.
If you wish to withdraw a previously registered Type 1 Opt-out, the same form can be used.