Overview of Phase Two Launch
Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust (HDFT) has officially launched the second phase of its Nervecentre Electronic Patient Record (EPR) system. This phase went live in May 2026, building on the initial phase that began in November 2025.
Key Features of the EPR System
- Phase one introduced electronic observations and clinical photography.
- Phase two enhances functionality, allowing urgent and emergency care teams to document patient care directly in the system.
- Additional features include clinical documentation, internal referrals, bed management, and outpatient e-observations.
Benefits of the EPR System
The EPR system aims to:
- Improve patient safety by reducing the risk of errors.
- Facilitate quicker access to historical records, clinic letters, and administrative correspondence.
- Free up clinician time, enabling them to focus more on patient care.
Statements from Leadership
Dr. Jacqueline Andrews, Executive Medical Director at HDFT, emphasized the significance of this transformation, stating:
“The new EPR will help us document more consistently, access information more quickly, and make safer decisions at every stage of the patient journey.”
Jonathan Coulter, Chief Executive at HDFT, also highlighted the impact of the EPR:
“This is a major step forward for Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, changing how information is managed and care is delivered across our hospitals.”
Collaboration and Future Plans
The EPR has been co-designed with clinical teams to ensure it meets their daily needs. HDFT selected Nervecentre as its preferred EPR supplier in August 2024, with a contract expected to last for ten years.
Paul Volkaerts, CEO of Nervecentre Software, congratulated HDFT on this milestone, noting:
“The smooth and successful go-live is a testament to the outstanding teamwork, dedication, and project management shown by colleagues at both HDFT and Nervecentre.”
Joint EPR Programme
HDFT is part of a joint EPR programme with York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which has postponed its Nervecentre EPR launch to focus on maximizing elective activity and recovering urgent and emergency care performance.