Introduction of Medicus Health EPR System
GP practices throughout England can now utilize a new electronic patient record (EPR) system, marking the first significant update to core IT systems in 25 years, as announced by NHS England.
Key Features of the Medicus Health EPR System
- Availability: The system is accessible to practices nationwide and is already operational in four early-adopter sites, benefiting over 42,000 patients.
- Compliance: Medicus Health is the first supplier to receive full assurance under NHS England’s Tech Innovation Framework, ensuring adherence to information governance, clinical safety, and data protection standards.
- Integration: The system seamlessly integrates with existing NHS infrastructure, including the electronic prescription service, NHS e-Referral Service, and NHS App.
Market Impact
Historically, GP practices in England have primarily relied on two suppliers for their IT systems: Optum (formerly Emis) and TPP. The introduction of Medicus Health represents a significant shift in the GP IT market.
Statements from NHS Officials
Dr. Amanda Doyle, NHS national director of primary care and community services, stated:
“This new generation of systems is the first shake-up of the GP IT market we have seen in a quarter of a century. This shift will facilitate more modern, integrated care for patients and enable our staff to work more efficiently.”
Benefits of the New System
The cloud-based technology from Medicus Health is designed to:
- Enhance integration between primary care and other healthcare settings, such as care homes and vaccination centers.
- Be compatible with various devices, including tablets, to support neighborhood care delivery.
- Integrate with 24 national NHS services and implement five new national open standards for information exchange.
Early Adoption Success
One of the first practices to implement the new system is Wilmslow Health Centre in Cheshire, which serves over 16,000 patients. Dr. Amar Ahmed, a GP partner at the center, remarked:
“I can access patient records instantly, making consultations smoother. As we become more familiar with the system, we anticipate even greater benefits, including more informed decisions and improved patient experiences.”
Future Developments
NHS England reports that over 25 integrated care boards are currently exploring ways to support the adoption of these new systems, with interest expanding across the country. More core GP IT systems that comply with the Tech Innovation Framework are expected to be available by April 2026, providing practices with additional options.
Conclusion
Medicus Health was one of eight suppliers included in the Tech Innovation Framework, which was launched in June 2022. This framework aims to foster innovation and enhance choice in the primary care IT market, paving the way for the next generation of IT system standards.