FAQ
What is the NHS CRS ?
The NHS Care Records Service is a centralised database containing patient records, designed so that they can be accessed by authorised personnel when and wherever necessary.
Why has this been created ?
This service has been designed because patient care has become more complex than ever and prescribing the right treatment could be critical to the lives of patients needing care. Q.
What are the benefits of this system?
One of the principal benefits of the NHS CRS is that the right information will be available to the right people at the right time - securely and confidentially. The system is made up of four elements: The Spine: is the backbone of the system, this is where summary information and patient data are stored and where information is exchanged. Electronic Transfer of Prescriptions (ETP): allows the transfer of prescriptions from GPs to pharmacists. Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS): this system enables clinicians to capture, store, share and remotely access x-rays and scans electronically. Choose and Book: this is the system that allows GPs to book appointments electronically.
When will patients notice a difference?
It is anticipated that from 2006, patients should be able to see their GPs and carers electronic recording notes. By 2010, the NHS CRS will be largely complete. It is the aim that this service will provide an individual NHS Care Record for everyone in England. The roll out of the NHS CRS across the NHS will be phased over several years with completion expected in 2010.
What will the NHS CRS deliver?
The NHS CRS will, eventually, provide comprehensive information about a patient's identity, health and care, for every individual in England, regardless of where, when and by whom they are treated. This service also provides additional benefits which will improve the abilities of the NHS to analyse the health of the population, to see changes in patterns of illness and monitor the efficiency and effectiveness of treatments and organisations.
How secure is this system?
The national contract has stated that very stringent security measures must be adhered to using state of the art encryption. The service provider will investigate any unusual occurrences and anyone trying to enter without the correct authorisation will trigger an alarm which will be investigated by a security officer.
Will my computer systems need to be upgraded or replaced?
The decision to migrate to the CRS is a joint decision between GP practices and their PCTs. Influencing factors in this decision will be the functionality of your existing hardware systems and their compatibility with CRS. Connecting for Health will provide PCTs with information about systems CRS compliant systems.
