Better sharing of care records offers people faster, safer treatment

Health and care organisations across south east London are improving care by connecting two successful electronic care record systems.

Previously two separate systems offered a secure way of sharing information electronically between local staff involved in healthcare. This meant that not everyone used the same system and information could only be shared in pockets of south east London. 

Now, the two systems have been linked together – connecting up some 15,000 care professionals across Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich, Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark to benefit approximately two million people. 

This means that health and care staff will have better access to more accurate information – such as a person’s medication and treatments, current and previous care and test results – so they can provide safer, faster and more effective care and support. Only relevant information will be shared securely and instantly between the staff who need it. 

People will benefit because: 

• They won’t have to tell their story to lots of different professionals
• They will have fewer unnecessary appointments and tests
• Transfer of care between services will be smoother
• Care records are available immediately online
• And delays in care and treatment will be reduced

Dr Jack Barker, Consultant at Kings College Hospital and Chief Clinical Information officer for the south east London Sustainability and Transformation Partnership (STP), said

Connecting these two systems will enable health and care professionals, across south east London, to work closer together.  People will see the benefits of faster, safer, more effective care and treatment.

Find out more about the Local Care Record in Bromley, Lambeth and Southwark.

Find out more about Connect Care in Bexley, Greenwich and Lewisham.