Here is a four-point plan to future proof the NHS and prepare for technological success:
- Scalable. The system might only have to deal with 1,000 patients, or 40 users, but what if two trusts joined together and those figures doubled? Ensure systems have the ability to scale and contract in line with requirements.
- Interoperable. The ability to work or integrate to other systems will be instrumental to success – financially and operationally. Removing silos so systems do not operate in isolation is a critical success factor.
- Visibility across systems to centralise support and effectively manage software and systems will minimise downtime and limit issues.
- Increasing automation will be essential to effectively manage the expected influx of technology. Removing administrative heavy systems refocuses resources on delivering outcomes.
Synchronising data across ESR, NHSmail and Active Directory, is the purpose of BDS Solutions’ Directory Manager. Directory Manager enables system integration and provides a secure and highly-efficient mechanism to retain control of access management.
Access management
Access management underpins a digital NHS. Without removing the walls between these systems, staff records have the potential to be inaccurate and inconsistent. The NHS cannot securely implement additional digital solutions, without solving the automation, siloed systems already in use.