Facilitator Handbook 2005 - PRIMIS

PRIMIS Facilitator Handbook
Path to Paperless
The Training
The training takes place over a full day, is run on a group workshop basis and covers the
following topics:
What is the Electronic Patient Record?
This covers a brief history of the growing capabilities and use of IT systems in general practice
and the landmark legislation permitting the keeping of electronic-only patient health records.
The advantages for the patient and the health professionals of using electronic patient health
records are analysed, as well as any perceived barriers. The capabilities of the electronic
patient health record are discussed, together with some proven techniques and tools for
helping a practice to plan and undertake this fundamental change in the way they operate.
Approval process for going paperless
In-depth information on the accreditation and approval process is included in the training. The
skills required to transfer written legacy notes are outlined with the focus on the need to plan to
achieve a quality result. An example exploring the sources of data flowing into a fictitious
practice is used to demonstrate the importance of data flow mapping tools in preparing to
become paperless.
References are made to the sections of the Quality and Outcomes Framework of the New
GMS Contract that have a bearing on records management.
Practical Tips
Advice on the scanning of documents and capturing of images for inclusion in the patient’s
electronic health record is given, together with some necessary recommendations on such
things as suitable file formats.
Further information on the background and subject matter included in this training is available
in the form of a workbook. This is provided to facilitators during the training.
Learning Objectives
The training will provide information facilitators with:
• an awareness of the background and history of electronic records in primary care
• an awareness of the information governance issues that need to be considered when
supporting practices in the transition to using electronic patient records
• an understanding of the benefits to PCOs, practices and patients in the use of
electronic patient records
• an understanding of the processes required to summarise medical records
• an understanding of the need for an ongoing data input and maintenance policy
• an awareness of the other elements related to “e-commerce” and the NHS
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