The UK care sector is at a turning point. With rising regulatory expectations, increasing medication complexities, and the ongoing push for digital transformation, traditional paper-based Medication Administration Records (MAR) are no longer sustainable. As care providers seek safer, more efficient solutions, eMAR (electronic Administration Records) is emerging as the clear choice for improving medication management and compliance.
While some care homes continue to rely on manual processes, the risks of medication errors, inefficient workflows, and compliance challenges are mounting. The Care Quality (CQC) has made it clear - safe and effective medication management is a top priority, and digital solutions are the way forward.
What Are the Risks of Using Paper MAR Charts in Care Homes?
Paper-based medication records have been the norm for decades, but the challenges they present are becoming harder to justify:
- Increased Risk of Medication Errors - Handwritten MAR charts increase transcription errors, illegibility issues, and missed doses, compromising resident safety.
- Time-Consuming Administration - Staff spend unnecessary time manually recording medication rounds, diverting attention from direct resident care.
- Regulatory Compliance Challenges - Paper records can be difficult to audit, making it harder to demonstrate medication safety practices to inspectors.
- Limited Oversight - Managers and clinicians lack real-time visibility into medication adherence, stock levels, and potential issues.
According to the Department of Health and Social Care, medication errors in care homes contribute to thousands of preventable hospital admissions each year. As a result, the demand for safer, more efficient digital solutions continues to grow.
Is eMAR Mandatory? Understanding the Compliance and Operational Benefits
While eMAR is not yet a legal requirement, it is increasingly recognised as best practice. Many care homes that have transitioned to eMAR report:
- Fewer Medication Errors - Automated alerts and real-time tracking help prevent missed doses and administration mistakes.
- Improved Compliance - Digital audit trails make CQC inspections smoother and provide clear evidence of adherence to best practices.
- More Efficient Workflows - Staff save significant time on medication administration, allowing for greater focus on resident well-being.
- Seamless Integration with Pharmacies - Digital systems streamline stock management and ordering, reducing the risk of medication shortages.
Care homes that have adopted eMAR report a significant reduction in medication errors and notable time savings per shift, making the transition a clear advantage in both safety and efficiency.
Why Now Is the Time to Switch to eMAR
As digital transformation reshapes the care sector, the shift to eMAR is no longer a question of “if” but “when”. Care providers that adopt digital solutions now will be better positioned for future regulatory changes while improving day-to-day operations.
Making this transition doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Positive Solutions, we’ve developed HxCare, an intuitive and fully compliant eMAR system designed to help care homes move away from paper-based processes with ease. From reducing medication errors to simplifying audits, HxCare supports care teams in delivering safer, more efficient care - without adding unnecessary complexity.
See eMAR in Action at Care Show London 2025
At Care Show London 2025, industry experts will discuss how eMAR is revolutionising medication management. If your care home is still using paper MAR charts, this is your chance to explore how digital solutions can help you enhance compliance, safety, and efficiency.
Come and see HxCare in action at Stand F30 at the Care Show London 2025. Drop by for a chat, a live demo, and to find out how switching to eMAR can make medication management safer and easier for your care home.
