LIVES could be saved by a new electronic patient information system being introduced in Dorset.

The system allows NHS doctors and nurses to view health information by sharing it electronically.

Key information such as allergies, current prescriptions and previous adverse reactions to medicines will be available to those treating patients in need of urgent care in a range of locations.

Weymouth GP Jon Orrell said: "The NHS might seem to be a co-ordinated service from the outside but it is divided into separate tribes who do not communicate with each other.

"Patients moving through the system from GP to ambulance to accident and emergency need to repeat basic details again and again. Vital information such as allergies and past illnesses might be omitted, which could be very dangerous for the patient."

Under the new system, key health information will be identified in a summary care record on a secure NHS network, adding further information such as long-term illnesses and operations.

Dorset is among the first primary care trusts in the country to introduce the summary care record and initially it will focus on six surgeries in the Portland, Lyme Regis, Charmouth, Sturminster Newton and Shaftesbury areas before being rolled out across the rest of the county during 2007-8.

Dorset PCT chief executive Peter Mankin said: "We're very pleased Dorset has been chosen as an early adopter of the summary care record. The system will help the NHS provide better, safer care."

Letters will be sent out to every person aged 16 and over registered with a participating surgery, along with an NHS Care Records Service leaflet explaining the system.

From July 17 patients at the initial six practices will have 16 weeks to decide about their own record. From November 8 these GP practices will automatically create care records unless a patient refuses.

Patients can choose not to have a summary care record or limit the information that is shared. They can also change their mind at any time.

Services such as out-of-hours, A&E and walk-in centres will be securely linked to enable them to access the data - crucial if the patient is confused or unconscious.

In Dorset, patients over 16 will also be able to register their summary care record via a secure website called HealthSpace so they can view their own information at any time. Patients with summary care record inquiries can call 0845 603 8510.