Online consultation tools now centrally funded

11 online video tools have been approved as part of the emergency framework to support GP practices to deliver online consultations.

There are two frameworks that provide the tools, available through the new emergency Dynamic Purchase framework launched last week and the GP IT Futures framework.

NHSX also confirmed this week  that it is fine for the NHS to use video conferencing tools such as Skype, WhatsApp and Facetime, particularly as a short term measure.

The Dynamic Procurement System (DPS) framework tender from last week, provides a list of approved video consultation suppliers that can be immediately called off by commissioners from Wednesday 25 March.

All products will be centrally funded from the frameworks.

NHSX has also published advice from their Information Governance team focusing on how to manage and share information appropriately.

One of the providers on the framework, GP&Me, Martin Bell said “It’s really great to see primary care adopting technology to support the challenging and difficult situation with the Coronavirus. It could well be that, despite the sadness of the reason, this situation does transform technology use for good, post the current pandemic.”

“Great to see so many suppliers doing their bit to support clinicians and patients, and proud to play our own small part via GP&Me video consultation solution, in partnership with The Martin Bell Partnership.”

Approved suppliers on the DPS Online Consultation framework

GPIT Futures assured systems