Date Published: 17 June 2010

BMA comment on electronic patient record evaluation

The final report of an independent evaluation of the Summary Care Record in England, published today (Thursday 17 June, 2010) on BMJ.com, finds that the benefits of the programme are more modest than anticipated.

Commenting on the research, Dr Laurence Buckman, Chairman of the BMA’s GPs Committee, said:

“ While the BMA does not oppose shared electronic patient records in principle, we have long voiced concerns about the way this programme has been implemented. It should not have been rolled out ahead of the findings of this evaluation – which uncovers some very serious issues - being published.

We are pleased that the programme is now to be reviewed. The BMA is happy to engage with the government to try to find a way forward that has the confidence of both patients and professionals.”

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