Development and use of integrated electronic records

Abstract

This paper discusses the experiences of an integrated primary health care team in establishing a shared 'paperless' record, written from the perspective of a health visitor and practice manager. The use of integrated electronic health records, by primary health care teams, requires an evolutionary approach that develops to match multi-faceted requirements over time. The paper considers the management of change and the functionality demanded of primary care computing systems to be considered 'fit for purpose', in a language that even the most computer-phobic person can understand. The team at Ash Tree House Surgery believes that patient/client care has improved as a result of shared and integrated information, facilitated by the use of information technology.