GDPR

National data opt-out

data opt out

The national data opt-out is a service that allows patients to opt out of their confidential patient information being used for research and planning.

The national data opt-out was introduced on 25 May 2018, enabling patients to opt out from the use of their data for research or planning purposes, in line with the recommendations of the National Data Guardian in her Review of Data Security, Consent and Opt-Outs. 

Patients can view or change their national data opt-out choice at any time by using the online service at www.nhs.uk/your-nhs-data-matters or by calling 0300 3035678.

By 30 September 2021 all health and care organisations are required to be compliant with the national data opt-out policy.

You can opt out of sharing your data

If you do not want your GP to share your identifiable patient data for purposes except for your own care, you can opt-out by registering a Type 1 Opt-out. This prevents your data being shared with NHS Digital if you register your opt-out before 1st September 2021. This was previously by 23rd June 2021 but this date was extended on 8th June 21 to September 21 instead. You can still register your opt-out at any time after this date and it will prevent any more data being shared with NHS Digital.

You can also register a National Data Opt-out, which will prevent NHS Digital from sharing your identifiable patient data for planning and research purposes. Your individual care will not be affected if you opt-out using either option.

Opt-outs (either type) that have been registered in the past will all be fully respected.

We have designed the collection with many safeguards in place to protect the privacy of patients, including removing all personal information that would directly identify patients before data is shared with NHS Digital.

By putting in place strict governance processes about who can access data and for what reasons, and being transparent about what data is shared and why, the programme aims to make patient data available safely and securely.

Making data available for research will lead to better:

  • NHS services for patients
  • treatments
  • medicines

For more information -

Collecting GP data - advice for the public - NHS Digital

National data opt-out - NHS Digital

Mythbusting social media posts about the national data opt-out - NHS Digital


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