Eight suppliers have joined NHS Digital’s Tech Innovation Framework, designed to increase innovation and choice of GP IT core clinical systems in primary care.
The new commercial framework aims to support the adoption of new GP core systems that have been designed and built in line with new standards and technologies. This includes taking an internet-first approach, using cloud technologies, improving interoperability, providing resilient services, and helping GPs comply with the core digital offer as per the 2021/22 GP contract. Each supplier on the framework believes that “they will offer something new” and provide wider choice in the GP clinical system market. To support the framework an early adopter programme has launched for ICBs, GP practices, primary care networks, federations and other groups of primary care providers who may consider changing core system. This includes support with funding, migrating, planning the change, implementation and post go-live support. NHS Digital said that “the framework will be a blueprint for introducing the next generation of standards for IT systems, with prospective suppliers required to deliver six core functions in general practice – patient information maintenance, appointments management, recording consultations, prescribing, referral management and resource management.”The suppliers joining the framework include:
- EMIS Health
- Eva Health Technologies
- The Flame Lily Healthcare (CheckUp Health)
- MedicalDirector (TelstraHealth UK)
- John White PM
- Medicus Health
- Ouris Health
- OX.DH (Oxford Digital Health)
Helen Clifton, Executive Director for Product Delivery at NHS Digital, commented: “This is a key part of the next stage of the GP IT Futures programme, which aims to move towards open, cloud-based systems which can be accessed over the internet on any device.
“We are putting patients at the heart of everything we do by ensuring primary care benefits from the very latest technology that gives GPs access to innovative digital products which make their jobs easier and enhances the care they provide.
“We want to ensure that system suppliers produce safe, easy to use systems that enhance the user experience, are built to adapt at pace and meet accessibility standards.”
