Do the DWP have access to my medical records?

GenghisKhan86

Ok I've recently been transferred from long term incapacity benefit to ESA (Work Related Activity Group). Now I have no problems with the DWP being able to access my medical records with regards to the specific illnesses that I am claiming for but I concerned that the DWP will have all my medical history on file. I Know a number of people indirectly who work for the DWP/jobseekers and I definitely wouldn't want them having access to this information...so am I worrying unnecessarily?

cattie

No they don't. They can write to your doctor for specific information regarding an illness/disability you are making a claim for, but don't get access to your medical history. So stop worrying & relax.

rogerblack

cattie wrote: »

No they don't. They can write to your doctor for specific information regarding an illness/disability you are making a claim for, but don't get access to your medical history. So stop worrying & relax.

In addition, your average DWP employee has no access to random files, even if this was a concern.
Only decisionmakers who are making a decision on the file.

People employed in other capacities who are asked to do something with the client - for example - work focussed interviews - will have extremely limited information. They do not have access to the medical records.

GenghisKhan86

That's brilliant. Thanks guys!