Setting up proxy access
In most cases you will need to contact the GP surgery of the person who wants help, to ask for proxy access.
The GP surgery will make sure the person giving access understands and agrees to it, where needed.
You may both have to fill in a form and prove who you are using photo ID.
The GP surgery will then decide what access, if any, is appropriate, and make the changes in their clinical systems to set it up.
Adults who cannot understand and agree to proxy access
Proxy access for another adult is usually given based on them requesting it themselves, or understanding and agreeing to it. Adults aged 16 and over are assumed to be able to understand and consent to their own treatment. This is called having capacity.
If the person you want to help cannot understand or agree to you acting for them, for example because of a condition such as dementia, this is called lacking capacity.
The GP surgery may still be able to give you access. They will make a decision based on what is in the best interests of the person who needs help.
NHS trial to apply for proxy access online
Some GP surgeries are trialling a new NHS service which you can use to apply for proxy access online.
Both you and the person you're applying about must be registered at the same GP surgery.
Using online GP services for someone else
If a GP surgery sets you up as a proxy for someone else, you can access services for them online.
If you are both registered at the same GP surgery, you can manage health services for others in the NHS App or by logging in to the NHS website.
If you are registered at different GP surgeries, the surgery setting up access will give you login information for an app or website you can use.