Martha Lane Fox in today’s Daily Telegraph argues there has to be case for the UK’s NHS to adopt Unified Communications across the service. The article has two central themes:
- Adopting Unified Communications improves service
- In difficult economic times Unified Communications can help save money
Public expectations are certainly racing ahead. A recent YouGov poll found that 40 per cent believe the NHS can learn from the services offered by supermarkets, banks and utility companies. A significant 77 per cent said they wanted to book medical appointments in a variety of ways, with 34 per cent preferring to do this online. And this wasn’t just young people. Twenty-six per cent of over-55s thought they would be able to see their GP via webcam in 10 years’ time, compared with 27 per cent of 18-24 year olds.
Using technology flexibly for the convenience of patients and those who treat them can free up time for invaluable face-to-face contact for those who need it. In these difficult economic times, the efficiency gains in delivering some services digitally can ensure that we maintain the quality of service for everyone.
I’ve said several times there remains significant demand, it is now up to the IT industry to step up and deliver. An organisation such as the NHS requires guiding on these matters.
Popularity: 1% [?]
No comments yet.