NHS data will be 'more complete' after change

The NHS is to start combining patient data from GPs and hospitals for the first time.

It will not be possible to track the data back to individuals, and people can opt out if they wish.

Dr Geraint Lewis, the Chief Data Officer for NHS England, believes the system will improve overall standards of healthcare.

Speaking with BBC Radio 5 live's Breakfast, Dr Lewis said: "It will give us a much more complete, more rounded picture of how the NHS is providing joined-up care across the country."