'Little choice' for GPs on IT changes

26 Jan 07

GPs in Derbyshire have complained they were given little or no choice by their PCT about taking on new computer systems to accommodate electronic patient records.

A survey of 38 practices by Derbyshire LMC showed more than half of GPs thought the TPP Clinical System was introduced without proper consultation. GPs rated the system's effectiveness, speed, and follow-up training package on a five-point sliding scale between 'excellent' and 'unacceptable'. Most GPs found the TPP system reasonably quick and reliable. But almost of half of practices felt security and data sharing implications were not properly explained. Only four practices gave positive scores when asked how well informed they felt about choices for system change. GPs were promised a free choice of IT systems by the Government more than two years ago, but the policy has still to be properly implemented. The GPC has asked GPs to report instances where PCTs have denied them proper choice.