Auditor’s report finds Jersey EPR system facing challenges

An audit report released by auditor general Lynn Pamment last week highlighted challenges in the implementation of Jersey’s electronic patient record (EPR) system. The report noted a lack of engagement from senior clinicians and managers, despite significant efforts by the EPR programme team. Pamment emphasized the need for greater stakeholder and user engagement, as well as a more effective approach to identifying, monitoring, and delivering benefits. The EPR system, expected to cost £29.3m and be fully implemented by 2025, aims to improve the efficiency of using medical records without relying on paper files. The report also highlighted the pressure on the government from parallel IT implementation programs and the need for additional external resources to support ongoing implementations. Deputy Tom Binet, Minister for Health and Social Services, acknowledged the challenges with the system but assured that the department is working towards improving the service and providing robust support to staff. He emphasized the long-term benefits of the EPR system in improving patient safety and saving time and money.