NHS complaints, health records and disability benefits in Scotland

For a parent in Scotland leaving a child with grandparents, a friend, a childminder or another carer: a signed letter arranging for the carer to consent to the child’s medical treatment while the child is with them, and to speak to doctors and dentists. A parent may not give up parental responsibilities and rights but may arrange for another person to exercise them on their behalf (Children (Scotland) Act 1995, s 3(5)). You choose emergency treatment only, or routine care too, and the dates. The carer keeps the letter.

For a patient in Scotland, or someone complaining with their consent, who is unhappy with care from a GP practice, a hospital, a dentist or another NHS Scotland service. A formal complaint under the NHS Scotland complaints handling procedure, to the practice or the health board's complaints team: it says what happened and what you want done, and that you may then go to the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman. The free Patient Advice and Support Service can help you write it. It is not a claim for compensation. Sent by email. Sold blank, to complete by hand, as it holds health data.

For a patient anywhere in the UK who wants a copy of their health records from a GP practice, a hospital, a dentist or a private clinic. A subject access request under Article 15 of the UK GDPR: it asks for the records you choose and the information about how they are used, and reminds the practice of the one-month time limit and that the copy is free. Sent by email, with proof of identity. In England the NHS App already shows many patients their GP record. Sold blank, to complete by hand, as it holds health data DocMuse does not collect.

For the executor or administrator of someone who has died, or a person who may have a claim arising out of the death, in England, Wales or Scotland. An application under section 3(1)(f) of the Access to Health Records Act 1990 to a GP practice, hospital or health board: it names the patient, says in which capacity you apply, lists the records wanted and recalls the Act's 21-day and 40-day time limits. Enclose the death certificate and your evidence. Posted first class. Sold blank, to complete by hand, as it concerns health records.

For a policyholder anywhere in the UK whose private medical insurance should pay for treatment. One letter for two moments: a claim for treatment you have had or need, or a challenge to the insurer's refusal or reduction of a claim. It sets out the treatment and the amount, your reasons, recalls the insurer's duty to pay within a reasonable time, and turns into a formal complaint with the eight-week limit and the free Financial Ombudsman Service. Sent by email. Sold blank, to complete by hand, as it holds health data.