Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust Launches Better Meds ePMA System: A Leap Towards Safer Healthcare
In a significant advancement for patient safety and healthcare efficiency, Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust has successfully implemented the Better Meds electronic prescribing and medicine management (ePMA) system. This innovative system has been seamlessly integrated into the trust’s electronic patient record (EPR) system, marking a pivotal moment in the digital transformation of healthcare services at Darent Valley Hospital.
A Weekend of Transformation
The rollout of the ePMA system took place over a weekend in July 2024, a strategic decision aimed at minimizing disruption to patient care. During this intensive two-day period, a dedicated clinical team undertook the monumental task of transcribing over 500 paper drug charts and 8,000 prescriptions into the new digital system. As each inpatient ward transitioned to the ePMA system, a team of superuser digital heroes was on-site to assist staff, ensuring a smooth transition and immediate support during the first e-prescribing and ePMA drug rounds.
Vision for Outstanding Care
Dr. Guy Sisson, the chief clinical informatics officer at Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust, articulated the trust’s vision for the future of healthcare: “Our vision is to be an outstanding hospital trust providing the best possible care for our patients that is safe, well-coordinated, in the right place and designed around the person’s needs.” He emphasized that the new ePMA system aligns perfectly with this vision, serving as a digital representation of the trust’s aspirations for patient care.
Integration with Miya Precision EPR
The Better Meds ePMA system has been integrated into the trust’s Alcidion Miya Precision EPR, creating a robust connection between drug information and critical patient data, including assessments, allergies, and key lab results. This integration not only enhances safety for prescribers but also streamlines the prescribing process, allowing clinicians to save time through standardized order sets. Furthermore, multiple users can now access and utilize the medication record simultaneously, fostering collaboration among healthcare professionals.
A Collaborative Effort
Kate Quirke, the chief executive at Alcidion, praised the collaborative effort that led to the successful rollout of the ePMA system. “It was inspiring to witness the dedication and extensive collaboration that led to the success of this rollout,” she stated. Quirke expressed pride in supporting Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust as they continue to enhance their digital infrastructure, highlighting the importance of partnerships with organizations like Better, which share a commitment to leveraging smart technology for meaningful change.
Enhanced Safety and Efficiency
The transition to the Better Meds ePMA system brings numerous benefits to healthcare providers and patients alike. Staff can now issue digital prescriptions that are legible, complete, and equipped with decision support features, such as drug interaction alerts, high-dose warnings, and automated allergy checks. These enhancements provide vital support and reassurance to healthcare professionals administering care, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes.
Additionally, the trust now has instant access to dose-level data reporting, which was previously confined to paper records. This newfound capability allows for comprehensive analysis and the implementation of medication safety improvements, further enhancing the quality of care provided to patients.
A Smooth Rollout Experience
Alja Babič, the Better Meds implementation consultancy lead, reflected on the successful rollout, stating, “It’s been a pleasure supporting Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust to optimize prescribing and medicine management.” Babič noted that the “big bang” rollout was one of the best the team had been involved in, describing it as smooth, well-planned, and expertly managed. The trust’s team should take pride in the significant progress made during this transition.
A Growing Network of NHS Trusts
The implementation of the Better Meds ePMA system at Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust marks the ninth successful go-live in the UK. Other NHS trusts that have adopted this innovative system include North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, and Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust. This growing network of trusts utilizing the Better Meds ePMA system underscores a collective commitment to improving medication management processes across the healthcare landscape.
Conclusion
The launch of the Better Meds ePMA system at Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust represents a significant step forward in the quest for safer, more efficient healthcare. By integrating advanced technology into everyday practices, the trust is not only enhancing patient safety but also paving the way for a more coordinated and responsive healthcare system. As the journey towards digital transformation continues, the commitment to innovation and progress remains at the forefront of Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust’s mission to provide outstanding care for all patients.