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Type 2 opt-outs have been replaced by the national data opt-out so practices must no longer use the type 2 opt-out code to record a patient's opt-out choice as it is no longer collected and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 2019Being an effective LMC (17 Oct 2018)
Over the coming weeks the newly elected and re-elected members of all of our LMCs will complete the process of choosing Chairs and Vice Chairs. This month two LMC chairs...Londonwide LMCs' October 2018 newsletter (17 Oct 2018)
...Next Steps for the Strategic Commissioning Framework launched (17 Oct 2018)
Londonwide LMCs continues to work with the system to lead and influence in order to secure the future of general practice in London, working jointly with London CCGs and NHS...Tips of the Month October 2018 (16 Oct 2018)
We provide weekly tips based on common queries which come through to us from London GPs and practice teams. These are shared via social media and collated for...National Data Opt-Out - update for practices (16 Oct 2018)
Practice checklist: Staff are aware that the type 2 opt out codes have been retired and replaced by a national opt-out. Practice privacy notice (or Fair Processing Guidance)Government notice on impact of 'no deal' Brexit on recognition of professional qualifications (16 Oct 2018)
One of these notices covered the recognition of professional qualifications, including those of Drs (including GPs) and nurses. At present the Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications (MRPQ) Directive is a...Feedback sought on GP Partnership Review interim findings (15 Oct 2018)
The GP Partnership Review is being conducted for the Department of Health and Social Care by Dr Nigel Watson of Wessex LMCs, with the aim of producing a set of...Don't forget to download BEAM to LMC - Londonwide LMCs' app (21 Sep 2018)
Londonwide LMCs' mobile application helps hard-pressed GPs and practice teams highlight the pressure they’re under from commissioners...Londonwide LMCs' September 2018 newsletter (19 Sep 2018)
...Written response to GP partnership review (18 Sep 2018)
We have provided a written response to the GP Partnership Review which is being conducted for the Department of Health and Social Care by Dr Nigel Watson of Wessex LMCs....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.