A NEW system that lets NHS doctors and nurses view summaries of patients’ records electronically is being introduced for residents of Bournemouth and Poole.

It means that key information such as allergies, current prescriptions and previous bad reactions to drugs will be available to authorised staff treating patients in need of urgent care.

The new system will see the records placed on a secure NHS network, where it will be capable of being viewed from out-of-hours services, hospital emergency departments and walk-in centres.

Further information such as long-term illnesses and operations can be added with the patient’s consent.

Local GP Dr Ros Maycock, chairman of the professional executive committee at NHS Bournemouth and Poole, said: “I would encourage people to be part of this as it’s important medical information can be readily accessed in an emergency.”

NHS Bournemouth and Poole chief executive, Debbie Fleming, said: “It will help patients receive appropriate care wherever they are treated.

“It’s also important patients feel reassured this is a completely secure service, with only relevant NHS practitioners having access to the information for the benefit of treating you.”

Letters and information started going out this week to every patient aged 16 and over registered with a GP practice in Bournemouth or Poole. When the summaries have been uploaded, people will be able to access their own records online through a secure website.

The initiative is part of a 10-year national scheme to establish a NHS Care Records Service by 2014. Ultimately, patients’ records will be accessible to doctors anywhere in the country.

For more information ring 0845 603 8510 or see connectingforhealth.nhs.uk