NHS England has approved a new cloud-based IT system for GP (general practitioners) practices across England, the first major update in 25 years.
The new electronic patient record system, developed by Medicus Health, aims to enhance the integration of primary care with other settings and can be accessed on various devices.
The updated technology is part of NHS England’s efforts to increase competition and innovation in the GP IT market.
NHS primary care and community services national director Amanda Doyle said: “This new generation of systems is the first shake-up of the GP IT market we have seen in a quarter of a century, and this shift will help unlock more modern, joined-up care for patients, and help our staff to work better and smarter.
“It also shows our ongoing commitment to ensuring that the NHS has access to the highest quality digital tools to transform the experience of patients and staff.”
Previously, GP practices in England had limited choices, relying on only two suppliers for their IT systems.
The new system, already implemented in four early-adopting sites serving over 42,000 patients, is expected to boost productivity and reduce administrative time for staff.
Medicus Health’s system is the first to be fully assured through NHS England’s Tech Innovation Framework, ensuring compliance with information governance, clinical safety, and data protection standards.
It easily integrates with NHS infrastructure, including the Electronic Prescription Service, NHS e-Referral Service, and NHS App.
Wilmslow Health Centre in Cheshire, serving over 16,000 patients, is one of the first practices to adopt the new system.
Medicus Health’s technology supports 24 national NHS services and implements five new national open standards for information exchange.
NHS England anticipates that additional core GP IT systems, meeting the Tech Innovation Framework standards, will be available by April 2026, offering a broader choice for practices.
Wilmslow Health Centre GP partner Amar Ahmed said: “I can access patient records instantly, making consultations smoother, and as we get more familiar with the system, we expect to see even greater benefits – more informed decisions, quick access to the right information, and a better overall experience for our patients and staff.
“Appointments are managed more smoothly, and our team communication has never been better. It’s the kind of efficiency that translates directly into patient care.”
