Birmingham and Solihull Shared Care Record

Ever wondered why, when you see a social worker, they can’t see all your health and care information?  And why you find yourself having to answer the same old questions over and over?

Well, the simple answer is they all use different computer systems to record your details. And because these systems aren’t connected, the health and care organisations looking after you can’t share your information with each other.

But that’s changing with the introduction of something called the Birmingham and Solihull Shared Care Record or ShCR.  ShCR will make a joined-up approach to health and care much more possible.

Watch the ‘Introduction to the Birmingham and Solihull Shared Care Record’ video on YouTube

What is the Shared Care Record (ShCR)?

The Shared Care Record is an electronic record of a person’s care.

The difference between this and what already exists is that it will bring together all your separate records into a structured, easy-to-read format.

This will give those professionals directly involved in your care a more complete view of the care and treatment you’ve had across all services.

Who will be able to look at my information – and what will they see?

The first phase of the Shared Care Record will allow health and care professionals directly involved in your care to view:

• Your GP practice medical record.
• Basic hospital care and mental health information.

Being able to see this information will help them give you the best care as quickly as possible without having to make phone calls or wait for other organisations to forward details on.

You can rest assured your records will only be seen by health and social care professionals directly involved in your care.

There are strict rules around how your information is used.  It will be managed and shared appropriately and in line with all legal requirements, including the General Data Protection Regulation and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Official inspections, or audits, will check this is the case.

How does having my records shared benefit me?

The benefits to you include:

• Not having to repeat your details every time you need care.
• Better and, potentially, faster treatment as the professionals caring for you will be able to quickly see your records.
• Clinicians will be able to see what medications you’re taking, what you’ve taken in the past, and if you have any allergies, making your treatment safer.

• More effective treatment should you need care for COVID-19, thanks to the fast availability of accurate information about any pre-existing conditions you might have and your medications.

Can I say no to this?

You can agree or disagree to share your information at any time; the decision is entirely yours.

However, we do not recommend this as information that could be vital when you need health or social care support might not be immediately to hand as a result.

If you do not want any of your data to be shared at all, you can submit an online form here, or telephone 0345 6461163.

Birmingham and Solihull Shared Care Record frequently asked questions.