Australian researchers looking at electronic record systems are investigating the experience of the NHS in Walsall, West Midlands.
The research, initiated by the Australian Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care, is questioning patients, doctors and NHS management in Walsall PCT about their experiences of Fusion, their new electronic record system.
The system, which reached the finals of the Health Service Journal Management Awards last year, gives healthcare professionals and partner care agencies access to Fusion’s secure, “all in one” record of the patient’s condition and history.
Head of Information at Walsall Primary Care Trust, John Thornbury, said, "We’re particularly pleased that the NHS in Walsall has been able to help others overseas with their planning for better electronic records. Often it seems that the NHS is looking at overseas examples to find better ways to use computers in healthcare. Now, overseas governments are looking at our electronic records systems here in Walsall to help make decisions."