National Switch Point

Why data sharing between healthcare providers is important

Our practice knows your medical history and can therefore treat you quickly and safely. However, in case of an emergency visit to another doctor, pharmacy or specialist, they do not have direct access to your vital medical information. The National Switch Point allows other healthcare providers to see important data such as medication, allergies and conditions for better treatment. This prevents dangerous situations and saves time as you do not have to explain your complete medical story each time.

How does the National Switch Point work in practice?

The National Switch Point is a secure and reliable system to which we have connected our computers. Other doctors or pharmacists can only access relevant medical information with your permission using their secure login details. Your medical information is always stored on our own computer systems and is never stored centrally. The LSP functions as a secure conduit only when medically necessary for your treatment. The Association of Healthcare Communication Providers (VZVZ) ensures the security and reliability of the LSP system, while we as healthcare providers remain responsible for the correct content and use of your medical data.

Who can access your medical data through the LSP?

Only doctors, pharmacists and other directly involved healthcare providers can view your medical data via the LSP with your permission when necessary for your treatment. Health insurers, company doctors and employers do not have access to this information and cannot view your data. You can always see who has accessed your medical information and when. This overview can be requested via the website of the Association of Healthcare Communication Providers (VZVZ).

What medical data can be viewed via the LSP?

Through the Landelijk Schakelpunt, healthcare providers can access different medical data depending on their role in your healthcare provision. Other GPs can view a comprehensive overview for complete care continuity. Specialists and pharmacists get limited access to only the information directly relevant to their treatment or medication provision.

GPs have access to:

• Your name, address and age;
• Current health records and medical history;
• Visit records for the past 4 months or last 5 consultations;
• Known allergies and hypersensitivities;
• Medication history and prescribed drugs;
• Side effects and medication intolerances.

Specialists and pharmacists can only view:

• Allergies and drug hypersensitivities;
• Current medication and prescription drugs;
• Relevant medication interactions.

Giving consent for data sharing via the LSP

You can give permission for the sharing of your medical data via the Landelijk Schakelpunt in two ways. You give permission separately to our practice and to your pharmacy for optimal care coordination. You can give permission via the consent form (English) and submit it to us. You can also give permission via I-give-permission.co.uk (English). For pharmacy details, contact your pharmacy separately to give permission there too.

Do you not give permission? Then other healthcare providers cannot access your medical data via the LSP. This also applies to emergency cases, where quick access to medication and allergy data can be crucial for safe treatment.

Do you still have questions about the LSP?

Feel free to ask us if you have any further questions. You can do so via our contact page.