Publish date: 19 July 2024
The NHS is aware of a global IT outage and an issue with EMIS, an appointment and patient record system, which is causing disruption in the majority of GP practices.
An NHS spokesperson said: “The NHS has long standing measures in place to manage the disruption, including using paper patient records and handwritten prescriptions, and the usual phone systems to contact your GP.
“There is currently no known impact on 999 or emergency services, so people should use these services as they usually would.
“Patients should attend appointments unless told otherwise. Only contact your GP if it’s urgent, and otherwise please use 111 online or call 111."
Read the full NHS England response on their website.
Hospital Trusts in Lancashire and South Cumbria also ask people to continue to attend hospital appointments unless they are contacted and told otherwise.
Urgent and emergency care services remain open and people should call 999 or attend accident and emergency services in the event of a life or limb threatening emergency.
Trusts have plans in place and are prioritising resources to protect emergency treatment, critical care, neonatal care, and trauma.
If you need mental health support or are in crisis, please continue to ring the NHS Crisis Team on 0800 953 0110. The lines are unaffected and clinicians will be there 24/7 to help.
The NHS value the public’s support during this period and urge people, if they use NHS services, to use them appropriately during these times of exceptional pressure.
