Transferring your electronic health record
Your GP practice holds copies of your patient health record electronically and in paper format. Both contain the healthcare information about you that your GP needs including your medical history, medications, allergies, immunisations and vaccinations.
If you have previously registered with a different GP in England, upon registering at this practice your electronic health record will, where possible, be transferred automatically from your previous practice through the use of an NHS system called GP2GP.
Patient benefits
When patients move practices, paper medical records can take weeks to arrive but GP2GP transfers are faster, more reliable and more secure than the existing paper-based method of transferring patient records. This means your new practice will have your full and detailed medical record available in time for
your very first appointment.
Frequently asked questions
What is GP2GP?
GP2GP is the technology that transfers your electronic health record directly and securely from your previous GP when you register at this practice.
Does my old practice need to be using GP2GP for my electronic health record to be transferred electronically?
Yes, both practices need to be using GP2GP. If they are not, only your paper medical record will be sent and will include a print-out of your electronic health record from your previous practice.
What happens to my paper record?
Your paper medical record will also be transferred to this practice. This usually takes about six to eight weeks. In the future when all practices are using GP2GP the need for sending paper records may be reviewed.
What information will be transferred in my electronic health record?
The information contained within your electronic health record at your previous practice will be transferred. This includes information about your medications, allergies, adverse reactions, immunisations and vaccinations, laboratory results, diagnoses, medical history and letters from specialists.
Will my repeat prescriptions be automatically transferred as well?
Yes, GP2GP transfers all the information about your medications. Your new GP will review all the medicines you are taking before authorising any repeat prescription.
I am registering as a temporary resident. Will my electronic health record still be transferred electronically?
No. If you are registering as a temporary resident your health records remain at your usual practice and are not transferred either as paper or via GP2GP. Your temporary practice will contact your registered GP if they require any information.
Where can I find out more about GP2GP?
Our practice staff should be able to answer any queries you may have. You can also read about GP2GP on the Health and Social Care Information Centre website: www.hscic.gov.uk/gp2gp