NHS benefits from invisible revolution

There's an invisible revolution happening in the NHS that is improving patient care while making the most out of precious resources. It's a technology-led change that has already transformed the way the commercial world does business. And now this innovation is making its way into hospitals..

In February, BT announced it had signed a five year contract to provide community nurses in the Northern Lincolnshire Health and
Social Care Community with easy-to-use mobile technology.

Harnessing the flexibility of wireless technology, staff are able to access clinical records, e-mail and support systems and databases - everything they need when they visit patients at home or in a remote clinic. Using rugged, shock resistant laptop computers, nurses are able to access critical patient information at the point of care, regardless of what time of day it is or where they are.

Widely used in the commercial world, there is nothing new about this technology. It's tried, tested, secure and reliable. What's ground-breaking,is this invisible wireless technology is now being used to help the NHS modernise - to increase efficiency, support improved patient care and increase responsiveness.

Kathy Drayton, a district nurse in North Lincolnshire PCT was keen to explain the difference it makes to her.

"Many of the patients seen in their own homes have complex health needs - and being able to access their medical records during the visit means you can make more informed decisions about planning care and treatment," she said. "Real time access to patient records, planned care and current health service provision can reduce the need for unnecessary referrals and hospital admissions".

Wireless technology

And it's not the only instance where wireless technology is delivering benefits to the NHS. In the Midlands, Worcestershire's health community - made up of 10,000 health professionals from three NHS trusts is also using wireless technology to improve communications. Up until now, staff have had to spend a considerable amount of time travelling between different departments in order to consult patients and collaborate with colleagues.

Now, staff are to be armed with a voice-controlled, wearable badge that will allow them to speak to each other instantly anywhere on site. It means that mobile health professionals such as district and community nurses will now be able to locate and exchange information with each other almost instantly. The technology helps to eliminate wasted travelling time contributing to improved productivity.

Stuart Hill, chief executive of BT Health sales, believes that NHS is beginning to demand this type of innovation and patients are beginning to expect it.

"Without a doubt, consumers and patients expect the NHS to have this technology," said Stuart. "Patients want this type of technology today and hospitals are gearing up for this.

"The NHS is on the cusp of a revolution and it's going to make a big difference to our lives in the future. I can see hundreds of uses for wireless technology and it will replace manual processes. The wireless revolution has spread throughout the commercial world - now it's the time for the NHS to make similar changes."

Click here for more information about BT is helping the NHS.