July 20 2018

Doctors are being reminded to ensure that any patient or other records which may be relevant to the UK Infected Blood Inquiry are not destroyed.

Earlier this month, the Inquiry’s Chair, Sir Brian Langstaff wrote to the NHS asking that reports, reviews, briefings, minutes, notes and correspondence however held (paper, electronic, microfiche, audio, video and any other means), which is potentially relevant to the inquiry be retained. 

In relation to the medical records of people who were infected and affected (which includes the families of people who died as a result of infection from infected blood and blood products), he has said that “such medical records are likely to be highly relevant to the work of the Inquiry” and is requesting “that all necessary steps are taken to ensure that they are preserved.”

In addition, he is requesting that “any fees normally charged to access and obtain copies of medical records, including the records of a deceased family member, are waived in the case of infected and affected people who request access and copies for the purpose of providing evidence to the Inquiry.”

Scotland’s Population Health Directorate, Health Protection Division, has written to practitioners with the request, in letter DL (2018) 14.

Links:
Scottish Government letter DL (2018) 14           
Infected Blood Inquiry

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