NHS Urged to Develop Clear Strategy for Electronic Patient Records
The Health Foundation has called for a comprehensive national strategy to maximize the benefits of electronic patient records (EPRs) within the NHS. While EPRs have the potential to enhance care quality and efficiency, their implementation across NHS trusts has been inconsistent, leading to underutilisation of their capabilities.
Research indicates that without a unified approach, EPRs may not deliver the anticipated improvements in patient outcomes or staff productivity. The Foundation emphasises the need for a coordinated plan that includes investment in digital infrastructure, staff training, and data standardisation to ensure EPRs effectively support clinical decision-making and patient care.
The analysis also highlights the importance of involving frontline staff in the development and deployment of EPR systems to address practical challenges and ensure the technology meets the needs of both patients and healthcare providers.
A strategic, system-wide effort is deemed essential to fully realise the potential of EPRs and to advance the digital transformation of the NHS.
