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Poor IT infrastructure at primary care trusts is hampering implementation of the single assessment process for older people, a survey has revealed.

The study of PCTs and strategic health authorities by Liberal Democrat MP Sandra Gidley also highlights problems and missed targets in implementing the National Service Framework for Older People.

There have been concerns for more than a year over the robustness of the IT systems. Gidley's report finds that many PCTs cited this as a reason for failing to introduce the single assessment process by the April target.

Forty-three per cent of PCTs failed to meet the April 2004 milestone for every GP practice to use agreed protocols to treat and care for dementia patients; and 18 per cent of strategic authorities failed to ensure health improvement plans included the development of mental health services for older people.

Nearly half of PCTs were unable to provide information on medication review. Of those that could, 35 per cent failed to meet the target to review the medication of over-75s each year and 28 per cent failed to do six-monthly reviews of people on four or more medicines. 

Report from COFFINL@parliament.uk