NHS approves first new GP IT system in 25 years

GP practices in England can now adopt the first new core electronic patient record system since 1999, marking a major shift in the technology available to general practice.

Medicus Health’s cloud-based platform is the first system to be fully approved through NHS England’s Tech Innovation Framework. It breaks a 25-year period in which most practices had access to only two core clinical system suppliers.

The system is already in use at four early-adopting sites, serving more than 42,000 patients. It is intended to improve efficiency, reduce administrative burden, and support integration with wider NHS services.

Dr Amanda Doyle, NHS national director for primary care and community services, 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.”

The platform supports data sharing between primary care and other settings including care homes and vaccination centres.

As a cloud-based system, it can be accessed on various devices such as tablets, enabling mobile working and neighbourhood care delivery.

Medicus Health is the first supplier to meet all requirements under the Tech Innovation Framework, which ensures products comply with information governance, clinical safety and data protection standards. It is also integrated with existing NHS services such as the Electronic Prescription Service, NHS e-Referral Service and NHS App.

Wilmslow Health Centre in Cheshire, which serves more than 16,000 patients, is among the first to implement the new system.

Dr Amar Ahmed, GP partner at Wilmslow Health Centre, 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.”

The system integrates with 24 national NHS services and is the first to implement five new national open standards for information exchange, including for electronic prescriptions and referrals.

More than 25 integrated care boards are exploring how they can support adoption, and further suppliers are expected to meet Tech Innovation Framework standards by April 2026.