If you require access to a specific set of prescription data this can be requested in different ways. This page details the options available and provides more information on the process involved in each.
Academic Research requests (patient identifiable data)
Requests for patient identifiable medicines data should be made via the DARS application process at NHS Digital.
Patient requests
To complete a search request as a patient you need to submit a subject access request form.
You can find the right form and guidance on how to do this in our subject access request form and guidance (Word: 287KB)
Patient NHS Number requests
To enable patient interactions, the NHSBSA can provide the NHS numbers of patients flagged by ePACT2 Dashboard comparators to those with ePACT2 access.
However, the NHS numbers will only be disclosed to requestors who can claim either of the following:
- They provide direct care for the applicable patients (namely GPs, Clinical Pharmacists, and so on). Practice Managers are not permitted to submit these requests.
- They have been commissioned to review the care of the patient - commissioned to look at care home patients, for example.
Patient details will be returned via email as a list of NHS Numbers for each of the requested comparators.
The request procedure for each specific dashboard can be found under the relevant ePACT2 dashboard page – select Supporting Information then Patient Information Request Procedure.
Note that due to the sensitivity of the information, the NHSBSA may reply for further information or clarification of your right to ask for the data.
Any queries or issues in submitting should be directed via email to DataServicesSupport@nhsbsa.nhs.uk
Other requests
Freedom of Information (FOI) requests
You can request certain information under the Freedom of Information Act (FOI Act). If you want to request information from us under the FOI Act, you can email us at: foirequests@nhsbsa.nhs.uk.