In the ever-evolving landscape of health and social care, timely access to accurate patient information is critical. One of the innovations making this easier for care providers is GP Connect. But what is GP Connect, and why does it matter to your care setting? Let’s break it down.
What is GP Connect?
GP Connect is a digital service provided by NHS England that allows CQC-registered social care providers to access read-only information from GP systems, such as TPP or EMIS. This data is then integrated directly into your Digital Social Care Record (DSCR).
Rather than waiting on the phone for updates or chasing paperwork, care teams can see vital medical information instantly — such as the last three GP encounters, current medications, allergies, immunisations, and active health issues.
Key features of GP Connect
- Read-only access to patient GP records
- Access to the last three practice encounters
- View current medications, allergies, immunisation status, and active problems
- Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) so staff access only what’s appropriate for their role
- Secure data sharing under the National Data Sharing Agreement (NDSA)
Why is GP Connect important?
- Reduces phone calls: No more endless waiting for prescriptions or medical summaries.
- Speeds up admissions: Quickly access a new resident’s medication and history.
- Improves care planning: More informed decisions with up-to-date data.
- Enhances transparency: Families can be shown real-time medical updates during visits.
- Supports staff: Especially valuable for services supporting individuals with limited capacity or no family advocate.
As Katie Barnes from Edgar Street Residential shared in a recent webinar, “The speed at which we can support people effectively without waiting on the phone is phenomenal.”
How to access GP Connect
To use GP Connect, your service must meet a few key criteria:
- Be a CQC-registered provider
- Have a Digital Social Care Record (DSCR) platform (e.g., Log my Care)
- Have a valid ODS code
- Complete the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT) at “Standards Met” level
- Accept the National Data Sharing Agreement (NDSA) terms
Once these are in place, onboarding is surprisingly straightforward — as described by early adopters, it’s often just “a click and a signature.”
Common questions
Is GP Connect secure?
Yes. It uses NHS-approved data sharing processes and is bound by data protection law. Access is limited and auditable.
Can hospitals access it too?
Currently, GP Connect pulls data only from GP systems. However, future integrations with hospital records are being explored.
Can I print the GP data?
Yes. The data from GP Connect can be printed and used for ambulance handovers or care meetings.
Final thoughts
GP Connect is not just a tech upgrade—it’s a practical tool with real-world benefits for providers, staff, and residents alike. By reducing admin time, empowering frontline workers, and improving access to critical data, it enables safer and faster care.
So if you’re wondering “what is GP Connect” and whether it’s worth it—the answer is simple: yes. It’s time to stop chasing information and start connecting care.
