The HSSIB has published an investigation report following a thematic review of patient safety issues associated with Electronic Patient Record (EPR) systems.
The report finds EPR systems still contribute to patient care being missed, delayed or recorded incorrectly despite national recommendations and actions intended to reduce risks.
Read the full Report.
"This report is not a criticism of EPRs themselves; when implemented well, they can bring benefits for patient safety. However, the analysis of our past investigations shows that systems which are poorly implemented, difficult to use, or do not meet the needs of staff and organisations can introduce avoidable patient safety risks, which can contribute to serious harm."
"We note in the report that these issues persist despite national recommendations and concerted efforts to reduce the risks. Ultimately, this review is clear that effective, needs-led implementation is essential to ensure EPRs have a positive impact on safety – this will help close the gap between digital ambitions and the realities of frontline care."
Original Souce www.hssib.org.uk
The report outlines implications for Electronic Prescribing which will be addressed at our forthcoming Free to Attend conference and exhibition taking place in-person in Birmingham on Thursday 19th March 2026.
“Several reports also described where the absence of an EPR system, module or specific functionality did not support patient safety. Such absences also meant paper and IT systems were used alongside each other for patient care. Examples included where paper clinical notes were used with electronic prescribing and administration systems”
