Social care and health records could be linked up nationwide if four pilot areas prove to be a success, according to the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services.
The pilots will test methods of integrating social care record systems with the NHS Personal Demographics Service.
It is hoped the pilot areas will inform decision-makers on how to make social services’ systems more consistent across local authorities before linking into the health records.
The four selected areas are Cheshire Council, London Borough of Greenwich, Slough Council and Torbay Care Trust.
By integrating the two electronic care record systems, patients will not have to repeat information to professionals across health and social care, and service standards would improve, said ADASS.
David Behan, Department of Health director general of social care, local government and care partnerships, added: “The importance of these projects is not about information systems, it is about giving the best possible care to people, and making sure that patients and public are able to influence the health and social care services they receive.”
More Information
Association of Directors of Adult Social Services
Department of Health
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