09 April 2014
The GP Central Services System (GPCS) is a new secure central data store that will be used by all Jersey GP surgeries. It will mean that if a patient gives permission, their medical records can be accessed by other GPs when they visit a different surgery or use the GP out of hours Service, reducing the risk of incorrect diagnosis or prescriptions.
Chair of the Primary Care Body (PCB), an association representing all Jersey GPs, Dr Nigel Minihane, said “I’m delighted that this new centralised GP medical records system is being introduced. It will improve patient safety and continuity of care when a patient is seen at more than one surgery or the out of hours service.
“Medical records remain confidential and secure. Patients will always be asked before their details are accessed and they have the right to stop all or part of their medical history being shared with other medical professionals.”
The GP Central Services System has been implemented in partnership by the Social Security Department and Jersey GPs.
Significant project
Minister for Social Security Senator Francis Le Gresley, said “This is a significant project for Jersey. Social Security and Health and Social Services have worked with the GPs to improve patient care and increase our understanding of what the Island’s healthcare requirements are”.
Initially, only GP surgeries and the GP out of hours service will have access to patient records stored in the GP central services system. For health care planning purposes, the Health and Social Services Department will also have access to statistical information about conditions, for example the number of people with diabetes, but they will not have access to personal information.
In the future, it’s planned to extend the system to the Hospital’s Emergency Department and other local primary care services to improve patient safety.
Leaflets
In the next few weeks, leaflets about the new records system will be sent to all Jersey households. Leaflets in Polish, Portuguese and large font will also be available from GP surgeries. Alternatively, click the link below to view the leaflets and read more about the changes.
gov.je