Type 2 opt-outs replaced by the national data opt-out
Type 2 opt-outs have been replaced by the national data opt-out so practices must no longer use the type 2 opt-out code to record a patient's opt-out choice as it is no longer collected and processed.
Type 2 opt-outs were previously managed by the patient’s practice making a coded entry in the patient record at the practice. They were collected by NHS Digital so that they would know not to share confidential patient information for research and planning. Type 2 opt-outs recorded on or before 11 October 2018 were converted to national data opt-outs.
Please note:
- Type 2 opt outs must not be recorded by practices, even if the code still remains on your clinical systems (it is taking some time for the clinical system suppliers to update the systems)
- You should signpost patients to the ‘your data matters’ website and the LMC guidance on the national data opt-out.
- Make sure you highlight the data protection risk to all practice staff that if a type 2 opt out has been recorded on the practice’s system in error after 11 October last year then it won’t be automatically converted and the practice will need to contact the patient and signpost them to the ‘your data matters’ website. If a patient later learns that their opt out has not been applied they may raise a complaint.
- NHS Digital recommend that practices conduct a weekly/monthly search on their clinical system to identify any new type 2 objection code entries since 11 October 2018. If any patients are identified from the search they must:
- Contact the patient to explain the type 2 objection was set in error and it will not be processed.
- Advise patients that instead of setting a type 2 objection they can go to the ‘your data matters’ website where they can find out more about data sharing and set a national data opt-out.
- Advise patients that there is also information for patients about the national data opt-out in the practice.
NHS Digital have also produced resources for practices to share with patients if they have any questions. The Royal College of General Practitioners has published a Patient Data Choices toolkit for GPs and practice staff, and training materials in their RCGP e-learning module.
Last updated : 19 Feb 2019NHS England and Improvement MMR campaign (22 Jan 2020)
The most recent update to the GP contract added the responsibility for practices to participate in six NHS England and Improvement public health campaigns each year. The first of these...Help us shape our new website (22 Jan 2020)
We know how important a good website is in communicating with our GPs and practice teams. Our current site has been around for several years and we would need your...LMC elections 2020 – make your voice heard (22 Jan 2020)
It’s LMC election time again at Londonwide LMCs! This year every LMC seat is up for election. Any GP working in one of the 27 London boroughs we represent may...Understanding the workload implications of two new PCN DES Service Specifications (22 Jan 2020)
Londonwide LMCs’ Medical Director Dr Elliott Singer has modelled possible workload requirement and resulting PCN liability for two of the new service specifications. His modelling reveals that the resources required...New PCSE online service for Performers List (22 Jan 2020)
The new Primary Care Support England (PCSE) online service for submitting Performers List (PL) applications and changes replaces the old paper forms and is now live. The BMA’s General Practitioners...Exciting opportunity for practice managers (22 Jan 2020)
For a limited period only, we are pleased to be able to offer you a unique career development opportunity, that’s fully funded for practice managers or those aspiring to the...Flu guidance for Autumn 2020 (22 Jan 2020)
NHS England have updated their advice to practices regarding which types of flu vaccine should be ordered for use during the next vaccination season. Full details of NHS England’s...PCN DES Outline Specifications consultation and costings update (22 Jan 2020)
Thanks for your input and support with the recent PCN DES Specifications consultation. The numbers speak for themselves. The overwhelming mood is one of frustration with loudly voiced opposition and...Londonwide LMCs' January 2020 Newsletter (22 Jan 2020)
...Guidance
We provide expert guidance for practices in our guidance section, as well as an archive of other materials you may find useful.
GP Support
Contact our GP Support team if you need help or advice.
The team provide professional and pastoral support to GPs and practice teams on a broad range of issues.