How can I opt out?

You can decide how your data is shared.

You can allow your data to be used for all, some or no research and planning purposes. Below are the different options available to you.

• You are happy for your data to be used for care, research and planning. 
  You do not need to do anything if you want your health and care information to support research and planning through the Cheshire and Merseyside SDE.
• You don’t want your data to be used for research and planning in Cheshire and Merseyside, but you’re happy for it to be used nationally.
  If you do not want your data to be used for local research projects, you can use the local data opt-out service by calling 0151 351 8888 or via our contact us form. You can find out what local research is being carried out via the data sharing register.
• You want to stop your GP practice sharing your data for research and planning, but you’re happy for hospitals and other providers to do this.
  If you do not want personal, confidential data held by your GP practice to be used for purposes beyond your care, you can register a ‘Type 1 optout’. To do this you can download a Type 1 opt-out form and return it to your GP practice. This would not apply to hospitals and other healthcare providers that could still use your information for research and planning. You can find out more on the NHS England website.
• You don’t want your data to be used for any research and planning.
  If you want to stop your data being used for research and planning purposes, you can use the national data opt-out service. This optout can be viewed or changed at any time on the NHS England website.
• You don’t want your data to be shared for care, research and planning.
  If you do not want your data being shared at all, you can raise a General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) – Right to Object with your GP practice. You have a right to object at any time, but please think carefully before doing this. This option would stop healthcare professionals viewing your records from other services. This could delay vital information being available if you need health or social care support – for example, during a visit to an Emergency Department. Your data would still be recorded by services as part of your direct care. Your GP practice has the right not to action your request should they feel it is not in your best interest.