|  The “National programme for IT” (NPfIT) is “the biggest
computer programme in the world … ever”, says the subtitle
of this book. It is also one of the most complex and, for the outsider,
one of the most difficult to comprehend. This book presents the past
and present state of information technology in the NHS and includes the
reasons why NPfIT was started in the first place. It also attempts to
look into the future.
Not specifically aimed at a pharmacy audience, the big issues, eg, the
electronic transmission of prescriptions in primary care and electronic
prescribing in secondary care, are covered, possibly not in as much detail
as some would like, but NPfIT is bigger than just pharmacy.
The author’s background is apparent throughout the text but, although
it is a history, it is incomplete. There have been significant changes
(to be expected) since the publication of this book, so the reader would
be well advised to seek an update after finishing it.
Those who have heard the author speak will recognise the style. It is
light and informative, presenting the topic in a way that keeps the reader
interested but nonetheless covers the issues in a sensible, coherent
and comprehensive manner.
It is testament to the skills of the author that the book is only 225
pages long, including 41 pages of appendices, references and a comprehensive
index. It would have been all too easy for the book to be twice as long.
It is a touch on the pricey side for all but the most enthusiastic in
pharmacy to purchase it. However, it would be an excellent addition for
trust libraries.
Richard Eyles (principal pharmacist computer services at
Queen Alexandra Hospital,
Portsmouth)
|
The
Pharmaceutical Journal