NHS Wales has this week cancelled its contract with Microtest Limited by mutual agreement.
The organisations have parted due to ongoing delays with Microtest supplying its clinical software to GP practices in Wales.
In January 2018, Microtest Limited was one of two GP IT systems suppliers to be awarded onto a Framework to provide clinical software to Welsh GPs, following a procurement undertaken by the NHS Wales Informatics Service on behalf of the General Medical Services (GMS) IM&T Programme Board and Health Boards.
Microtest Limited was due to deliver its clinical systems to Welsh GP practices from January 2019, under a five-year period, with the option to extend for up to a further two years.
A spokesperson for the NHS Wales Informatics Service said “Microtest could not deliver the hosted clinical software and meet the integration requirements of NHS Wales within the timescales that would allow GP practices to transition from the previous contractual arrangements.”
“The decision to end the contract was not arrived at lightly, with several factors contributing, including the impact that the delays were having on practices in planning for their migration to a new system.”
“We are extremely disappointed with this outcome but it is the best course of action for Welsh GPs, practice staff and the patients that they care for. The NHS Wales Informatics Service and the GMS IM & T Programme Board are committed to delivering clinical software that will enhance and support the vital work of family doctors in Wales.”
As the system was not implemented NHS Wales has not made any service payments to Microtest.
Dr Phil White, Chair, GPC Wales said “GPC Wales is entirely supportive of the decision by NHS Wales to cancel its contract with Microtest Limited.”
“GPC Wales has been fully involved in the procurement process, and consistently highlighted the impact that unacceptable delays were having on practices in planning for their migration to a new system.”
“We remain committed to engaging with the consultation process to ensure that the views of the profession are represented and that clinical IT systems are not only fit for purpose but will improve and support the working practices of GPs in Wales.”
