Optimising the use of observational electronic health record data: Current issues, evolving opportunities, strategies and scope for collaboration

Abstract

Background With increasing computerisation in general practice, national primary care networks are mooted as sources of data for health services and population health research and planning. Existing data collection programs - MedicinesInsight, Improvement Foundation, Bettering the Evaluation and Care of Health (BEACH) - vary in purpose, governance, methodologies and tools. General practitioners (GPs) have significant roles as collectors, managers and users of electronic health record (EHR) data. They need to understand the challenges to their clinical and managerial roles and responsibilities. Objective The aim of this article is to examine the primary and secondary use of EHR data, identify..