Primary care information technology within the NHS

The planning and implementation of electronic information systems and technology (IS/IT) following the National Health Service (NHS) reforms in the UK are both widespread and significant. Considers these new organizational arrangements, for primary care general practitioners (GPs), to aid decisions for the referral of patients to hospital specialists. The proposals, through an analyses of the concept of markets and hierarchies, may result in an alternative and better referral experience for those patients who express a preference. Presents an overview of the reforms and notes the subsequent impact of IS/IT as a facilitator for changing the structure of primary care within the NHS. Argues that, if primary care physicians adopt a more appropriate management of IS/IT and are proactive in its application, then the outcome will produce more patient choice, less non‐attendance and consequently improved health care provision.