GPs can access patient records via tablet devices
pharmafile | September 12, 2012 | News story | Medical Communications | Digital Blog, GPs, NHS, ipad
The first ever service allowing GPs to access and update their patient records using an iPad or other tablet device has been launched.
leading GP software supplier EMIS has just launched the first GP and integrated care system to enable mobile working on all the main tablet devices, from iPads to Android.
The EMIS Mobile app allows health professionals to work online and offline, managing patients even when there is no internet connectivity. Functions include accessing their diary and appointment schedule to viewing patient records and adding consultations.
The software is compatible with all the main tablet platforms, including iOS, Android and Windows 8.
The EMIS Mobile app will be available from mid-October to sites in the EMIS Web early adopter programme, and will then be available to all EMIS Web users by the end of 2012. The firm says the benefits will extend not just to GPs but also to growing number of other healthcare professionals who use the system, including community and secondary care teams.
Dr Shaun O’Hanlon, Clinical and Development Director, EMIS: said: “Our working world is changing rapidly as the technology revolution gathers momentum. As the UK’s leading supplier of GP software, EMIS is a pioneer in using technology to transform the delivery of clinical care in the NHS.
“Our users demanded safe and secure access to essential patient information wherever they work, across multiple platforms, and we have responded. The EMIS Mobile app will help clinicians to provide safer, more streamlined care on the move, while releasing them from paperwork to spend more time with patients.”
While the news is a welcome development for GPs who want to use tablet devices to use patient records, it comes at a time of uncertainty for funding IT in the health service.
The reform of the NHS in England means there is confusion about how projects and investment will be co-ordinated. The NHS Commissioning Board has now made clear that it will oversee primary care IT, but that responsibility for funding of general practice IT will be transfered to CCGs.
This means CCGs will handle hardware, network services, support services and training for practices – a situation which is likely to see further fragmentation in how new technology is adopted across England’s health service.
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