THE NHS is planning to gradually replace written patient records with electronic records.
It is intended that these records, called Summary Care Records and Detailed Care Records, will be phased in for patients in North Lancashire over the next few years.
NHS North Lancashire is writing to over 200,000 people approaching 16 and over a
nd registered with GP practices in the north Lancashire area to inform them of these plans.
The primary care trust says that Summary Care Records will improve the quality and safety of patient care by giving staff faster, easier access to important health information about a patient to help with their treatment.
A patient's Summary Care Record will be available for NHS staff providing them with care anywhere in England. They will be particularly helpful if a patient needs emergency treatment out of hours or away from home.
Dr Jim Gardner, medical director at NHS North Lancashire, said: "A Summary Care Record will mean essential health information about a patient is available where and when it is needed. In other words, a patient's health information is always with them."
The Summary Care Record will include information about allergies, current medication and any particular health problems.
Unless a person opts out a Summary Care Record will be created for them.
People who want to opt out must return a form to their GP practice by May 17.
Further information and help is available from the NHS Care Records Service at
www.nhscarerecords.nhs.uk.
