How do private GPs store their consultation notes?

Why Store Consultation Notes Electronically?

In today's digital age, storing consultation notes electronically is almost a non-negotiable for the efficiency and safety of medical practice. Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems ensure that patient records are not just organised and easy to access, but also secure from physical damage or loss that traditional paper records risk. Moreover, EHR systems like EMIS Web offer significant advantages in terms of compliance with national standards and integration with NHS services.

What is the best electronic record system for private GPs?

There are two main GP record systems used in NHS care in the UK: System1 and EMIS Web. Whilst private practitioners can't access System1, they can use EMIS Web.

EMIS, employed in approximately 60% of NHS GP practices across the UK as well as in Jersey, the Isle of Man, and Gibraltar, provides a robust consulting mode. It offers rich clinical reporting and a comprehensive set of medication and pathology modules.

"Having used four other private sector record systems before switching to EMIS, I would now never consider anything else. EMIS is designed to meet NHS standards, and we've been able to operate more safely and compliantly since we migrated – it is foundational to our practice."

Clinical Director

But what about billing?

EMIS doesn't come with built-in billing and invoicing. Nonetheless, users can access a wider partner program of integrated products—such as 'Hero'—which provides comprehensive invoicing and payment solutions. Hero Health not only integrates seamlessly with EMIS Web but also supports online booking and patient communications.

What are the advantages of electronic patient records?

Besides improving ease of access and security, electronic patient records have several benefits over traditional systems:

Faster Data Retrieval

Electronic systems can organise information to facilitate swift data retrieval, crucial for reviewing long-term patient data efficiently.

Safer Clinical Decision-Making

Systems like EMIS Web include decision support features, guiding clinicians with prompts for crucial medical calculations, like those for assessing sepsis risk in children.

Increased Security

With industries becoming more digital, security becomes paramount. Electronic systems ensure that only authorised personnel can view sensitive information, and they keep detailed audit trails of all accesses and modifications.

Enhanced Collaborations

Unlike paper records, electronic systems facilitate easy sharing of information, enabling a more unified healthcare approach across UK practices.