Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

BackgroundThe NHS is moving towards electronic access to health records for patients from 2004 and needs to involve patients in the development process. The aim of the study was to explore the views of a large sample of patients about online access to EPRs and health information in primary care. Areas covered included: accuracy rights of access; security; confidentiality and smart cards.Material/methodsThe questionnaire was sent to 1050 patients selected at random from the practice list after stratification for age and sex.Results66% of patients aged over 20 years old responded. Patients know they have the right to see their records although few have done so. Overall they feel the advantages of electronic health records outweigh the disadvantages. They have concerns about security, confidentiality, understanding their records, their accuracy and completeness. The patients recognised the potential benefits to their healthcare and relationships with health professionals. There was a majority view that parents / guardians and carers should have access to their dependants' records.ConclusionsPatients need to be confident that access is limited to those who have the right to see the records. The majority were confident they would understand their records and about half were familiar with computer use. However these are major issues for older patients who will require assistance in order to benefit from accessing their EPRs. It is essential that patient involvement takes place at every stage of the development of EPRs and that their views are taken into account.

Type

Journal article

Journal

Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research

Publication Date

11/2004

Volume

10

Pages

SR17 - SR22

Addresses

National Primary Care Career Scientist, Department of Public Health, University of Oxford and General Practitioner, Bury Knowle Health Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom. cecilia.pyper@public-health.ox.ac.uk

Keywords

Humans, Medical Records Systems, Computerized, Patient Access to Records, Adult, Aged, Middle Aged, Primary Health Care, Female, Male, Surveys and Questionnaires