"EPRs have the potential to massively improve efficiency in the NHS. If working properly, they allow doctors to keep all of their records in one place, speed up prescribing and diagnostics, and make it easier for patients to access their own health information."
"These roll-outs have not been without problems. Concerns have been raised about how far these benefits can actually be realised. Some NHS trusts have experienced issues with integrating new systems and training staff on how to use them. In the extreme, there have been reports of EPRs creating new problems for hospitals, with evidence suggesting these systems may have contributed to serious harm and even deaths among patients."
"NHS trusts have been put in charge of procuring their own EPRs, meaning there are numerous different technology companies involved. Some providers of these systems are large US firms. This includes Oracle Health, provided by the Larry Ellison-led tech giant, and Epic, a tech firm based in Wisconsin. Contracts can run into nine figures."
The NHS is mandating electronic patient record (EPR) systems across all English trusts by March 2026 to modernize healthcare delivery. While EPRs offer significant potential benefits including improved efficiency, centralized record-keeping, faster prescribing and diagnostics, and enhanced patient access to health information, implementation has encountered substantial obstacles. NHS trusts independently procure systems from various providers, including major US firms like Oracle Health and Epic, with contracts reaching nine figures. Some trusts have experienced integration difficulties and staff training challenges. Concerns exist about whether promised benefits can be realized, with evidence suggesting certain systems may have contributed to patient harm. Digital records now exist in over 90% of trusts and all GP practices, though a few trusts remain at risk of missing the March deadline.
#electronic-patient-records #nhs-digital-transformation #healthcare-technology-implementation #patient-safety-concerns #healthcare-system-modernization
Read at ComputerWeekly.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]