15.06.20
Landmark IT deal struck to provide access to digital tools
An agreement has been struck by NHSX and NHS Digital will save the NHS hundreds of millions of pounds and enable all eligible organisations in England to access Microsoft 365 digital tools, saving hundreds of millions of pounds for the NHS.
The deal guarantees significant cost savings for both individual NHS organisations and the NHS as a whole, as well as improving productivity, enhance collaboration and strengthen cyber security across healthcare services.
As part of the agreement, the software will be deployed to as many as 1.2 million staff across NHS organisations, including trusts, CCGs and health informatics services, creating a more joined-up NHS. Staff will be able to communicate more effectively and will have access to the information, applications and services they need, reducing the administrative burden on staff and improving patient safety.
It builds on an agreement first announced in April 2018 which enabled NHS organisations to use Windows 10 to strengthen their defences against cyber attacks.
GPs, consultants, nurses, therapists, paramedics and support staff will now have access to the services within Microsoft 365, ensuring they are able to use tools including instantly messaging, audio and video call conferencing. Many NHS organisations have already adopted the technology to collaborate, share information securely and support new ways of working during the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Announcing the deal, Matt Hancock, Secretary of State said: “Adopting the most up to date digital tools and operating systems are crucial for a modern day NHS - allowing staff to work as efficiently as possible which will deliver even better care for patients.
“We have seen incredible, innovative uses of technology throughout the NHS during the covid-19 pandemic and this new deal will pave the way for that to continue by ensuring we get the basics right.”
Matthew Gould, CEO at NHSX added: “This deal ensures that the NHS will get the best possible value for taxpayers, and is good news for our staff and patients.
“This deal represents a saving of hundreds of millions of pounds. This is a direct result of negotiations led jointly by NHSX and NHS Digital. It means staff will have access to the best possible collaboration and productivity tools, and that our cyber defences are as strong as possible.”
Sarah Wilkinson, CEO at NHS Digital also said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to conclude these negotiations successfully.
“This deal will allow the NHS to derive productivity and collaboration benefits from the use of numerous Microsoft products and will strengthen cyber security across the system.”