XML records improve diabetes care in Salford

The record data is sourced from GP and Acute clinical systems operated by EMIS, In Practice Systems and iSOFT, and is stored on a central repository in the PCT. Information stored on the record includes results of tests, basic statistics of the patient’s condition, and most importantly of all, the full care plan and record of the patient journey.

The repository software is supplied by the XML technology and consultancy firm Graphnet, and is integrated into the Disease Management Systems Programme (DMSP) and NPfIT.

John Burns, project manager at Salford PCT, said: “This solution is innovative… In collaboration with NPfIT, Salford are the first to develop this type of messaging."

“We have had a great working partnership with Graphnet. The project plan was developed jointly and this close contact has facilitated rapid project implementation."

Advantages that the system brings include portability, instant access for health professionals regarding their patients’ conditions and consistency of treatment.

Patients are also given access to their records in the form of a basic paper summary, should they move house or need treatment in another PCT.  Salford PCT hopes this will result in a reduction in complications for sufferers, helping patients take more responsibility for their care.

Health professionals who have access to the system include GPs, consultants and nurses. The records are accessed using a standard 128-bit SSL encrypted connection over the web, and are password protected on a strict need-to-know basis.

The XML data is fully compliant with HL7 and national GP to GP message standards, therefore keeping down processing times and ensuring total accuracy.

Dr Bob Young, Clinical Director of Diabetes & Endocrinology at Salford Royal Hospitals NHS trust said that giving patients a copy of their own records was an important part of the project: "A key objective for us is to support patients’ self-efficacy.

“Patients are happy with the inbuilt confidentiality safeguards and the fact that they no longer have to keep repeating their basic demographic information."

Another benefit of the record system is that Salford’s information requirements can be easily fulfilled, and PCT audits, CHI reviews and basic resource management can be carried out more easily.

The project is in its second phase and will be reviewed at the end of the summer. If it continues to be successful, it will be expanded from the current scope of 8 GP practices to all 61 practices across Salford.