An electronic patient record system and geriatric psychiatry: considerations and implications

We describe the introduction of an electronic patient record system (EPRS) to Central Manchester old age psychiatry service and review its effects and implications. An EPRS can transform the operation of a service and allows integration of the work of different disciplines. Gradual managed introduction coupled with individualized training and ongoing support have been vital. Clinical priorities must lead system development and the needs of users feed back into system development.