Facilitator Handbook 2005 - PRIMIS

Path to Paperless
PRIMIS Facilitator Handbook
Path to Paperless
Background
“Going paperless has been a major hurdle for many. It is the golden egg of medical
information technology and many believe offers great promise for medical care. UK
primary care computing leads the way in the world. It has a long history stretching back
over 20 years. The systems have been developed, primarily by experienced GPs, into
medical records that are more sophisticated and more comprehensive than those in other
countries. The ‘cradle to grave’ NHS record, the need for lifelong total care and the
registered list of patients have given us the opportunity to explore what computer systems
can do. However, their full potential has been recognised by only the dedicated few, with
most just using the computer for basic data collection. Now, UK general practice has
changed. The increasing bureaucracy, the need for accountability and the removal of the
legal impediments mean that every practice now has to move towards fuller
computerisation and the paperless practice.”
Glyn Hayes, August 2001, in Going Paperless, Shaw N, Radcliffe Medical Press
Questions to consider before attending this module:•
• Do you know what the legal position is for practices regarding the keeping of
wholly electronic patient health records?
• Are you aware of your PCO's responsibilities with regard to approving
applications to maintain electronic patient health records?
• Do you know who is responsible for the approval and accreditation process at
your PCT?
• Are you able to offer help and guidance to your practices?
• Do you know anything about scanned image file formats?
This training module is intended for those facilitators who are working with practices moving
towards developing electronic patient health records. Many practices have already made
considerable inroads into moving away from paper-based recording. However, they will all be
at differing stages and need differing individual help and guidance.
The latest guidance published by the Royal College of General Practitioners, the British
Medical Association and the Department of Health forms the basis for much of the Path to
Paperless training session. Experiences learned and shared by other facilitators are also
included.
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