Patient safety features of clinical computer systems: questionnaire survey of GP views.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate general practitioners' (GPs') stated knowledge, use and training needs related to the patient safety features of computerised clinical systems in England.


METHODS
Questionnaire survey.


METHODS
GPs from six English primary care trusts.


METHODS
GPs' views on the importance of specified patient safety features on their computer system; their knowledge of the presence of specified safety features; previous training and perceived future training needs.


RESULTS
Three hundred and eighty one GPs (64.0%) completed and returned the questionnaire. Although patient safety features were considered to be an important part of their computer system by the vast majority of GPs, many were unsure as to whether the system they were currently using possessed some of the specified features. Some respondents erroneously believed that their computers would warn them about potential contraindications or if an abnormal dose frequency had been prescribed. Only a minority had received formal training on the use of their system's patient safety features.


CONCLUSIONS
Patient safety was an issue high on the agenda of this GP sample. The importance of raising GPs' awareness of both the potential use and deficiencies of the patient safety features on their systems and ensuring that appropriate training is available should not be underestimated.
Morris
C J
CJ
The Drug Usage and Pharmacy Practice Group, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK. caroline.j.morris@manchester.ac.uk
Savelyich
B S P
BS
Avery
A J
AJ
Cantrill
J A
JA
Sheikh
A
A
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001292:Attitude to Computers; D004739:England; D005194:Family Practice / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016347:Medical Records Systems, Computerized / Q000592:standards*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010821:Physicians, Family / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D017751:Safety Management; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires