GP Connect – Data sharing in a care setting

The NHS Transformation Directorate have developed new guidance on the use of GP Connect for CQC-registered care providers.

Greater digitisation of the adult social care sector means clinical staff, and non-clinical staff where appropriate, can quickly and efficiently access relevant information to support them in delivering better and more personalised care to an individual. It’s important that they have the right information about the individual when they need it, regardless of whether that information was recorded in a health or social care setting.

A step towards giving adult social care staff this information has been to enable access to GP Connect for CQC-registered providers. This provides access to a restricted view of an individual’s GP record for the purpose of individual care.

The NHS Transformation Directorate led on this approach in close consultation with both the National Data Guardian (NDG) and Information Commissioner (ICO) to ensure that the use of an individual’s data is safe and appropriate. Both the NDG and ICO confirmed that they were reassured by the approach set out below which they viewed as a positive step towards enabling effective and coordinated care across the health and social care sectors.

GP Connect access

CQC registered providers are now able to request access to an individual’s GP record via GP Connect to support the safe care of an individual.

Where the GP practice is assured that access is for the purpose of providing an individual with care, they can grant ‘read-only’ access to information in the GP record. Access will be limited to the clinical data that is necessary and proportionate to the role of the person wishing to access it. Clinical staff for example nurses will be able to access relevant clinical information, which will be tailored according to their role.

Where should providers go for further support and guidance on managing data?

• Read our detailed guidance on GP Connect
• Providers should ensure that staff who access confidential information understand the principles of data protection and data sharing and how to apply them in practice. Free training on Information Governance for staff working in adult social is available
• The NHS Information Governance advice and guidance for health and care professionals
• Find more information on the Data Security and Protection Toolkit and advice for social care providers on the Digital Social Care website and look at our pages on How to Document your Processing Activities.
• Attend our Masterclass on Data Access and GP Connect

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