Source · HSSIB Patient Safety Investigation
Electronic patient record systems – electronic referrals for ongoing care
Launched 13 January 2026
Launched
Access to care
Follow-up care
Continuity of care
We have launched an investigation that explores risks to patient safety where electronic patient record (EPR) systems, introduced to support referrals for patient care, have contributed to harm from missed or delayed care.
Summary
4 scope items
Investigation Scope
Scope 1
Scope
EPR systems have been implemented to support the transfer of clinical information as part of a referral; this includes in the management of rejected referrals.
Scope 2
Scope
Learning from reported hazards with EPR systems have been escalated and learnt from to improve systems and their use in a pathway.
Scope 3
Scope
Use of advice and guidance may introduce risks to patient safety and how they may be mitigated.
Scope 4
Scope
Oversight of pathways of care is undertaken and assurance is sought at a regional level.