New vision for Annan GP

ONE Annan surgery will change over to a new IT system this month.

Annan North Surgery, on Greencroft Wynd, is one of six GP practices across Dumfries and Galloway that has started to change over to NHS Scotland’s new Vision IT system.

Greyfriars Medical Practice in Dumfries became the first to change over in 2026 at the end of January and Annan North Surgery will go live during February.

All other GP practices in the region will follow over the next eight months.

Individual practices will contact patients, pharmacists and other stakeholders to let them know the changeover dates, which will vary from practice to practice.

This major initiative, supported by NHS National Services Scotland and the Scottish Government, will introduce a modern, secure, and flexible IT solution across all GP practices in Scotland.

Dr Neil Kelly, clinical lead for GPIT in NHS Dumfries and Galloway, said: “The upgraded platform will enable future developments such as virtual consultations, online appointment bookings, and easier sharing of test results.

“Having a single information system across Scotland will also make it simpler to transfer records when patients move practices and will support better planning and development of NHS services in the future.”

Switching over to the new system will see each practice undertake a 12-week process, followed by a four-week settling-in period.

Once a practice is using Vision, tasks may take longer to complete as practice staff get used to the new system in the immediate weeks after they go live.

Dr Kelly added: “As with any major IT change, there may be some disruption. We are providing as much support as possible to minimise the impact.”

Individual GP practices will advise their patients on how to manage during this short period.