Where is my confidential medical information held whilst I am viewing my online EHR and who has access to it?
The information you view on the online system comes from the clinical system in your GP practice. Portions of this information are encrypted (this means it is very difficult for someone else to intercept and read the information) and securely sent from the GP system to your PC web browser.
None of the medical information that is shown on the online system is held permanently on any computer except the computer which holds the original data in the GP practice.
When you log off from the online system or if a problem occurs with your computer, for instance a power failure, all your confidential medical information is cleared from the system.
Using the online system does not allow any extra people to view your medical information other than the people who would normally have access to it in the GP practice.
How will other people be prohibited from seeing my record?
To view your online EHR you have to identify yourself with passwords and PINs that only you know. Unless you reveal this information to someone else you will be the only person able to access your medical record via the online system
What if I find an error in my medical record or if I see someone else’s medical information?
If you find any errors or missing information in your medical record you can use the messaging system (if your practice has enabled it) to send the practice a message or alternatively you can tell the receptionist or discuss it with your GP. If you see someone else’s medical information you should immediately exit from the system and inform the practice staff.
What if I don’t want to register to use the PAERS System?
If you do not want to register to use the PAERS System you can still use all the practices’ services exactly as before. Your decision not to register will not affect your treatment or your relationship with your GP practice in any way.
What should I know about with regard to passwords I might use?
Passwords are all Case sensitive
Please remember there is a difference between O (letter O) and 0 (zero)
If you leave passwords lying around then the system is not secure
Should I be concerned about identity theft?
No address / NHS or National Insurance numbers are given out on screen
Those details however can be obtained when reading letters
What if I mess thing up?
No matter what you do or click you can’t alter the records.
You can cancel appointments if you make a mistake
When you order repeat prescriptions, you are given the opportunity to check what you have requested before submitting it and can leave a message with your request
What if I am seeing a doctor and there is no computer in the room?
It can easily happen. If you know you are going to see a doctor then take a print out with you. This could include any of their letters to your GP and any recent test results
What if the doctor I am seeing objects?
Then be polite and apologise
You brought them with you to assist the doctor not to antagonise them