The system will build on current digital investments to create a single patient record system across hospitals, mental health and community services.

Both trusts are working collaboratively on the design and implementation of the new system to help ensure it fulfils the needs of their patients and service users.

It will improve how clinicians access patients' comprehensive health and care information in real-time and enhance patients' experiences by not having to re-tell their health or care history whenever they see a health professional.

Zephan Trent, executive lead for strategy and transformation for EPUT and MSEFT, said: ‘The introduction of a new, single patient record system across our hospitals, mental health and community services is a step further in enabling and empowering our doctors, nurses and health professionals to deliver the sign care, at the right time and at the point of need.

‘It will enhance co-ordination and collaboration among clinicians to aid faster decisions that will further improve the care we provide to our patients and their families.'

Dr Matt Sweeting, executive medical director for Mid and South Essex ICB, added: ‘Patients don't see borders between NHS organisations, and neither should we. Our digital infrastructure needs to reflect this.

‘The new patient record system will reflect the reality of care across our acute, mental health and community services. Along with our approach to shared care records and our commitment to work with all our partners, this will support modern joined-up care across health and care services.'

The new system is expected to launch in 2026/27.