SCR Medical Abbreviation

SCR stands for Summary Care Record, an electronic summary of a patient’s essential medical information used in the NHS in England. It helps ensure safer, faster, and more effective healthcare, especially during emergencies or out-of-hours visits.

What’s Included in an SCR?

A basic Summary Care Record typically contains:

• Current medications

• Allergies and past adverse drug reactions

• Information about past operations and vaccinations

• Personalised care preferences (if shared)

• Emergency contact or next of kin details

With patient consent, a more detailed SCR can include additional information like long-term conditions, care plans, and significant medical history.

How is the SCR Created?

• An SCR is automatically created when a patient registers with a GP practice in England.

• It is generated using data from your GP medical record, which acts as the source record.

• Patients can opt-out if they don’t want an SCR created.

Who Can Access an SCR?

Only authorised health and social care staff—such as doctors, nurses, and paramedics—can access an SCR, and only when it is relevant to your care. Access is monitored and strictly regulated under NHS data governance policies.

When is it Used?

An SCR is especially helpful when:

• You’re treated outside your GP practice

• You’re in urgent care or emergencies

• You are unable to communicate, such as during unconsciousness or severe illness

It helps clinicians make safer decisions without delay.

Availability

• Over 96% of people in England have a Summary Care Record.

• If you’re unsure about your SCR status or want to view or update it, you can use the Summary Care Record New Interest Form available through your GP or the NHS website.

Opting Out

You have the right to opt out of having an SCR. To do this, you need to complete an opt-out form and submit it to your GP practice.