Online access to GP records patient case studies: Margaret's story

I’m Margaret. I’m a tech consultant living in London, and I have type 2 diabetes.

Before the lockdowns, I was not paying much attention to my condition. I was focused on my busy life, career and travelling extensively.

In 2020, I was called in for a routine smear test and the nurse reminded me that my blood sugar level test had not been done for a long time. Having type 2 diabetes without treatment means that high sugar levels in your blood can seriously damage parts of your body, including your eyes, heart and feet.

I went to my GP and my test showed that my sugar level was very, very high. That was a real wake up call. I needed to take my diabetes seriously and do more to manage my condition. I downloaded the NHS App and began attending regular GP appointments, working closely with my GP and diabetic nurses to monitor my health.

I now use the NHS App to view test results, my GP notes and feedback from members of the practice team involved in my care. I can also see documents from my diabetes consultant and other health professionals.

Accessing my health records via the app means that I’m able to discuss and make decisions about my treatments and care together with my GP, instead of just listening to what they say. My GP recently messaged me via the app with options following my test results for carpal tunnel syndrome and now I feel well informed and able to choose a treatment option.