Why does the NHS collect information about you?
Your doctor and the team of health professionals caring for you take records about your health and any treatment or care you receive from the NHS. This information will either be written down (manual records) or held on computer (electronic records). These records are then used to guide and manage the care you receive.
You may also be receiving care from an organisation outside of the NHS e.g. social services. If so we may need to share information about you so that everyone involved in your care can work together for your benefit. Whenever this is necessary your information will be handled in the strictest of confidence.