Scarlett McNally: We need a more nuanced approach to fixing errors in the electronic patient record

The article emphasizes the need for a more nuanced approach to the risks introduced by electronic patient records, increased computerization, and artificial intelligence within the NHS. Last year, the national patient safety team at NHS England issued an alert regarding the incorrect recording of patient allergies through alphabetic dropdown menus in electronic forms. Thousands of patients were mistakenly recorded as allergic to penicillamine (a rarely used drug) instead of penicillin. Approximately 10% of the UK population reports an allergy to penicillin. Lookalike and soundalike medical and pharmacological names can easily be confused. These problems are exacerbated by automation bias, as humans think differently when writing by hand, and errors are far more likely with electronic forms. NHS England requires each trust to report on its progress in redefining the allergy status of each patient where it was incorrectly recorded.