Electronic health records

Published on: 16th July 2013 | Updated on: 11th November 2025

Electronic health records (EHRs) are digital versions of a patient’s medical history. They are increasingly being used across the NHS to support safer, more joined-up care.

Background

Community pharmacies now have more opportunities to view and use EHRs—where the right consent is in place. This can help pharmacy teams make better-informed decisions, improve patient safety, and support clinical services.

This page explains how EHRs relate to community pharmacy, what current NHS policy says, and what pharmacy teams need to know.

A growing number of IT suppliers offer integrated EHR solutions. Pharmacy teams should work with their IT supplier to explore available options and ensure systems meet NHS standards.

Latest Digital & Technology news

View more Digital & Technology newsSee all