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Supporting Scotland’s Primary Care GP software users: welcome to the Scottish National Users Group (SNUG).
At the SNUG Members’ Day, a workshop featured Dr. Keith Mercer discussing his practice’s migration to the Vision IT system, in an interview with National Facilitator Manager Dawn Ellis.
PreparationThe team used checklists, spreadsheets, and searches to prepare for the move from EMIS. Keith and the Practice Manager dedicated around 10–12 hours to data mapping, alongside routine work. Staff completed short e-Learning modules on the Vision training system and benefited from early adopter on-site training.
Migration & Go-LiveDuring migration, the practice offered urgent appointments only and kept patients informed. EMIS was still used for appointments and prescriptions, while clinical notes went into DACS before transferring to Vision. On go-live day, staff relied on trainer support. Controlled drug prescriptions were quickly added to Vision, and others were scanned into Docman.
Post-Migration & OutcomesThe first few weeks were challenging, with staff adapting to Vision and experiencing mental fatigue. Issues included printing prescriptions and Med3s, learning Vision Tasks, and setting up Mail Manager. However, the practice now appreciates Vision’s efficient search, recalls, and modular layout. Keith advises that practices allocate plenty of time for training and preparation and not to underestimate the effort involved in the transition but concludes Vision does have some good functionality, such as better prescription and record-searching capabilities, and stresses the importance of adequate staffing and additional support during early migration stages.
NSS GP IT site EMIS to Vision GP Practice toolkit (only accessible via SWAN)
Process and preparation PPT – detailed overview of process at practice level with overview of Vision (only accessible via SWAN)
Vision 3 Quick Reference Guide for Clinicians
Cegedim Learning Zone
General Practice: Progress since the 2018 General Medical Services contract: Paragraph 50: “The Scottish Government acknowledges that Primary Care data and the infrastructure to support it is inadequate and has said that improving this situation is a priority”.
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Scottish National Users' Group (SNUG) Podcast
Supporting Scotland’s Primary Care GP software users: welcome to the Scottish National Users Group (SNUG).