Introduction to tools to deliver high quality care

In-built within EMIS web are tools that support us to deliver high quality care. These include:

  • Templates: are aid the recording of information in a standardised and efficient way, they can also contain links to important supporting information
  • Protocols: these are mini-programmes in which functions such as “pop-up” reminders, templates, diary entries and drug prescriptions can be automatically triggered
  • Population reporting: within the population reporting function, searches can be performed and reports can be generated.

Templates and protocols can be combined such that a template will automatically ‘fire’ given the circumstances set by the protocol. Templates can make population reporting more straight forward as, if the information is coded in a standardised way, it can be easily searched for.

Using these tools

Templates aid the recording of information in a standardised and efficient way, they can also contain links to important supporting information. Research evidence shows that templates can shift behaviours to better align with quality indicators.

Developing a template: 

We have found that clinicians like templates to do something for them, that is, link to the information or to automatically trigger appropriate referrals.

Downloading a template:

Examples of a template:

Templates are developed regularly, for all sorts of purposes, including incentivised schemes and research projects. In addition to the work described on this platform, further templates can be obtained through other sources:

Disclaimer: templates provided on this and other sites have been developed for a particular purpose and may not be updated. It is important that before the use of any template every individual clinician checks the content appropriateness and completeness. We are not responsible for any missing information, incorrect use of codes or adverse outcomes. 

EMIS web protocols are mini-programmes in which functions such as “pop-up” reminders, templates, diary entries and drug prescriptions can be automatically triggered.

We have used protocols to:

  • Aid the recording and follow up of pre-diabetes
  • Flagging up less-than-ideal prescribing 
    •   At the time of prescribing e.g. Category 1 Epilepsy drugs prescribed generically, the protocol gives a warning that it is important that patients stick to one manufacturer specific brand
    • Upon opening up patient records if they have medications that are not aligned to guideline recommendations e.g. low-intensity statins or non-ideal antiplatelet (e.g. aspirin in a patient with a history of stroke).

How to access protocols: 

Protocols may be either programmed to:

  • Trigger automatically given a certain situation
  • 'Called up' on demand - is done most easily by adding your favourite protocols to a personalisable menu, accessed using F12 button (follow this link to see a short tutorial hosted by Queen Mary University of London) 

How to develop a protocol:

Protocols can be as complex or as simple as you want. It is helpful to start with a basic protocol initially. A useful online tutorial to show you a basic protocol is hosted by Queen Mary University of London.

There are two key functions within population reporting that help us to deliver and/or identify high-quality care:

  • Search: identifying patient populations based on defined codes/characteristics
  • Report: standardised outputs that present required information from defined populations

Within our knowledge exchange platform, we aim to share useful tools that have been created to support the delivery of high-quality primary care. Below are resources/tools that we have identified as being of value but we would love to hear from you if you think we are missing any.

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