In the context of Summary Care Records (SCR), implied consent refers to a protocol where it is assumed that patients consent to share their health information unless they have explicitly opted out.
Understanding Implied Consent with SCR
For SCR, which is a summary of a patient's key health information that can be accessed anywhere in the NHS in England, implied consent allows for the necessary data to be shared to improve patient care, especially in urgent situations. This enables healthcare providers to make informed decisions without needing to repeatedly request consent, thereby streamlining care delivery.
With implied consent as a standard, healthcare settings can ensure essential medical information is readily accessible during emergencies, potentially saving crucial time in patient care.
Managing Implied Consent for SCR
Patients are automatically enrolled under the implied consent model. However, they have the right to opt-out if they choose not to participate in the SCR program. This decision can be communicated to their GP practice, who will update the relevant records accordingly.
To tailor the SCR to a patient’s preferences or to record an opt-out, follow these steps within the EMIS Web system:
- Select the patient in question from the EMIS Web Menu, navigate to the Care Record section.
- Access the SCR consent preferences via the expanded patient précis or Sharing Consent option under Registration.
- Update the consent preferences as required or record any expressed dissent.
Enhanced Service Benefits
Did you know? By integrating with EMIS Web, Hero Health's Care Navigation Triage can facilitate more efficient patient interactions. This service allows patients to provide information and receive guidance on suitable healthcare pathways, enhancing patient empowerment and potentially reducing administrative burden.