You are entitled to access and receive copies of the health records that we hold about you in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018 (GDPR). The procedure for requesting access to your health records is as follows. 

Access applications are logged upon receipt of an email or letter sent by post (please read the Access to Records guidance notes before making an application). 

Applications should be sent to: 

Subject Access Team 

Dorset HealthCare 

Sentinel House 

Nuffield Trading Estate 

4-6 Nuffield Road Poole 

Dorset BH17 0RB. 

Alternatively, you can email your request to dhc.sar.enquiries@nhs.net. 

A request will then be made to the areas that hold the relevant records. Once all the required records have been gathered, they will be sent to each treating clinician for authorisation to release. 

An appointment is then arranged for you to view the original records, or the requested copy records are sent out (via Recorded Delivery unless otherwise specified). We expect to provide all requested documentation within one calendar month of receipt of a valid request. If for any reason we are unable to meet this deadline, the applicant will be informed. 

More information about how we store and use information on patients, including our full Privacy Notice, is available in the Confidentiality section of our website. 

Advice about accessing your health records is also available on the NHS Choices guide to your health records. 

Accessing other records 

If you would like access to your employment, recruitment or other non-health related information, please contact the Information Governance Department with the specific details of your request. 

The Dorset Care Record (DCR) brings your health details together into one confidential computer record which enables health and social care staff to provide you with the best possible care. The DCR holds information around allergies, medication, care plans and your medical history. Every Dorset resident has a shared care record unless they’ve opted out.    

Sharing your record will ensure that: 

  • you receive co-ordinated, safe care 
  • clear decisions are made about your care 
  • you don’t have to repeat your details to lots of different professionals 
  • we hold accurate contact details about you 
  • your care record is always available to those involved in your care 
  • we have a full understanding of your situation. 

The DCR is a partnership comprising the Dorset Integrated Care Board (including GPs), Dorset HealthCare, Dorset County Hospital, University Hospitals Dorset, South Western Ambulance Trust, BCP Council and Dorset Council. Find out more.