Three companies have won places on a new framework contract to supply IT software to GPs across NHS Scotland.
EMIS Health, Microtest and Vision (InPractice Systems) can now develop accredited systems, the functions of which should include increased access for patients to online services.
NHS National Services Scotland (NSS) said the new systems will be more intuitive and user-friendly and will include improved functionality specified in consultation with GPs. Expected benefits include improved online services for patients, better monitoring and reporting, and remote and mobile access for primary care teams.
The contract award follows a procurement process, managed by NSS and overseen by the national GP IT Re-Provisioning Project Board.
Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary Jeane Freeman (pictured) said: “I welcome the fact that the new systems will allow people greater access to online services.
“This is an emphatic commitment to mainstreaming the use of digital in our health and social care services, as set out in our Digital Health and Care Strategy. The new contract is the result of detailed discussion with health and social care professionals, and I look forward to seeing the planned improvements resulting from the new contract from 2020.”
Colin Sinclair, chief executive of NSS said: “The new GP IT Managed Services Framework will offer significant benefits related to the reform of primary care and the services delivered to patients. It will provide modern, secure GP IT systems which will support the evolving models of care in Scotland.”
Image from gov.scot, Open Government Licence v3.0
