Press release: NHS Confederation comments on health select committee enquiry into electronic patient record

13 Sep 2007

"We recognise most of the problems identified in the committee's report and we agree with the thrust of what is recommended to resolve them.  Furthermore, the potential for electronic patient records to improve health services is immense.   To be successful this message must be pushed forward and ensure that new IT systems deliver definite benefits for patients while allaying legitimate concerns about safeguards and security.

"Indeed, our evidence to the committee made it clear that there is an issue with 'ownership' of the project at the local level.  Clinicians and staff in individual NHS organisations are going to be not only the main users of the data but also the prime source of views for members of the public.  It is vital that their concerns are addressed properly and that they are involved meaningfully in the implementation of new systems.

"It is clear that effective engagement has been handicapped by commercial systems which are not ready in some parts of the country. This reflects the complexity of the programme and is not surprising in a national development of this scale, but it adds to the frustrations of clinicians and managers who want systems that are fit for purpose.  It is within this context that we welcome the report and will continue to work with our members to ensure the full potential of EPR for patients is realised."

Notes for editors

The NHS Confederation represents more than 95% of the organisations that make up the NHS. Its members include the majority of NHS acute trusts, ambulance trusts, foundation trusts, mental health trusts, primary care trusts, special health authorities and strategic health authorities in England; trusts and local health boards in Wales; and health and social service trusts and boards in Northern Ireland.

Contact details

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