Can DWP do SAR for medical records?

Hi Faith,
I guess DWP could do this, but unless there is some sort of fraud going on, I can't see why they would.
Normally when you fill out a PIP form or similar benefit form there is a box you sign to give DWP the right to contact your GP. If you don't sign, I suspect you don't get benefit. Mostly DWP don't contact a GP. (They always used to as a matter of routine, but don't now, possibly because the GPs charge.) DWP have no real need to go rabbiting through medical notes. If you don't supply them, you don't prove your case, and DWP won't care, they will just decide no benefit.
This is why I can't see DWP wanting medical records except in a fraud/overpayment scenario when they want to prove you are not disabled but still claiming benefit.
If DWP did want the records and you had not consented, then they would have to show a proper justification for requiring the medical records.
I hope this helps.
If you have an actual scenario and provide more information someone here might be able to give more specific advice.
LL26