When exploring alternative treatments such as medical cannabis, one of the most important steps in the consultation process is providing accurate and up-to-date medical information. That’s where a Summary of Care comes in.
Whether you're new to medical cannabis or researching it as a potential therapy, understanding what a Summary of Care is – and why it matters – will help you feel more confident and prepared on your journey.
So, what exactly is a Summary of Care?
A Summary of Care is an official medical document issued by your GP (General Practitioner). It includes key details about your current health status, including:
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Your active diagnoses (any conditions you are currently being treated for)
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Prescribed medications and treatments
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Any relevant health concerns or history
Think of it as a snapshot of your medical background, giving healthcare professionals a quick but detailed view of your ongoing care and current needs.
Why is it important for medical cannabis consultations?
When you apply for a medical cannabis consultation at Big Narstie Medical, one of the first things we ask for is your Summary of Care. That’s because, in the UK, medical cannabis can only be prescribed when there is clear evidence that:
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You have a qualifying condition (such as chronic pain, sleep issues, anxiety, or neurological disorders),
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Conventional treatments haven’t worked or caused intolerable side effects.
The Summary of Care helps our clinicians verify both of those points. It ensures we have a safe and legal foundation to work from, while also tailoring your treatment to your personal health needs.
How do I get my Summary of Care?
Getting your Summary of Care is usually quick and simple. Here’s how:
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Contact your GP surgery – You can request your Summary of Care either by calling, visiting in person, or through your GP’s online portal.
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Mention it’s for a specialist consultation – Most surgeries are familiar with this kind of request, especially as more patients explore private or alternative healthcare routes.
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Receive your document – It’s often sent to you via email or available for download through your NHS online account.
Tip: When requesting it, ask for it in PDF format, which makes it easy to upload during your application process.
What if my GP refuses or delays sending it?
While most GPs provide this information without issue, occasionally there may be delays. If that happens:
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You can remind them that under GDPR rules, patients have the right to access their medical records.
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Ask how long it typically takes and follow up if needed.
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Let our support team at Big Narstie Medical know — we can offer advice or alternative routes to move things along.
Is my Summary of Care confidential?
Absolutely. At Big Narstie Medical, we treat your information with the highest level of confidentiality and in line with UK data protection laws. Your Summary of Care is only viewed by our medical professionals for the purpose of evaluating your eligibility and designing a safe treatment plan.
What happens after I submit it?
Once we receive your Summary of Care, our clinical team will:
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Review your current diagnoses and medications
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Assess whether medical cannabis is a suitable option
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Book you in for a consultation if you meet the criteria
If you're eligible, you'll be invited to speak with one of our expert doctors, who can discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals in more detail — all with the aim of finding the best solution for your wellbeing.
A Summary of Care may sound like a small piece of paper, but it plays a big role in unlocking personalised healthcare options — including access to medical cannabis. It gives our team the information we need to understand your health journey so far, and how we can best support you moving forward.
If you're ready to take the next step in your wellness journey, make sure your Summary of Care is up to date and accessible. It’s your key to starting a conversation that could change your life.