Patient safety is paramount in the implementation of electronic patient record (EPR) systems, according to a report by Patient Safety Learning.
The report emphasizes the need for patient safety to be at the core of designing, developing, and launching EPRs. It outlines the risks associated with selecting and introducing new EPR systems, citing examples from NHS trusts such as Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust.
Instances of patient harm resulting from EPR implementation underscore the importance of proper training, support, and ongoing monitoring. The report advocates for greater involvement of patients and frontline staff throughout the process to enhance safety measures.
Patient Safety Learning CEO, Helen Hughes, stresses the potential of EPR systems to enhance care but cautions against overlooking safety concerns. Transparency, reporting, and sharing of incidents are essential to ensuring the safe implementation of EPR systems and minimizing avoidable harm.
The report concludes with ten principles for safe EPR system implementation, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach to patient safety throughout the design, development, and deployment phases.
