Technical Links Project

The NHS Plan sets a target that by December 2004 a single phone call to NHS Direct will be a one-stop gateway to out-of-hours healthcare, passing calls on, where necessary, to the appropriate GP co-operative or deputising service. The 2003-2006 Planning and Priorities Framework confirms the NHS Plan target.

The Department has established an OOH Technical Links Project to:

>           Promote the development of an appropriate network of OOH providers which are capable of linking electronically with NHS Direct:

>           manage (and fund) the programme of electronic links between NHS Direct and OOH providers.

>           link electronic integration with wider work streams on clinical integration and other Carson Review recommendations.

This is a new project which is being steered by a Project Board which includes PCT, SHA and NAGPC representation. Detailed documentation has been produced which:

>           clarifies the NHS Plan and PPF target;

>           explains how this is different from clinical integration;

>           describes a registration process and timetable for OOH providers wishing to establish a technical link with NHS Direct in line with DH targets;

>           sets out the responsisbilities of SHAs and PCTs; and

>           explains the criteria to be met by OOH providers will be made available separately by the department.

Click here for a covering letter for the criteria document

Click here for the criteria document

Click here for a registration form for providers

MDT

Remit

• The group will ensure that deliverable solutions in terms of the OOH 'standard' functionality are formulated with the agreement and to the benefit of all users and to the enhancement of patient service.
• The multi-disciplinary team will manage the delivery/strategy of the functionality using the guiding principles of consistency and best practice.
• The team will provide direction and strategy for the technological:
  • development
  • structure
  • standard
  • principles
  • operational impacts
• The group will be chaired by Stephen Shortt or a nominated representative from the National OOH Implementation Team.
• To remain consistent and appropriate in view of the developing service the composition and focus of the multi-disciplinary team will be reviewed regularly to guarantee effective input into the functional and implementation process.

Membership

• To consist of representation from:
  • NHS Direct
  • National Operational and site representation
  • Clinical
  • Joint Development Team
• National OOH Implementation Team
• NAGPC and OOHP representatives
• Primecare
• Technology Suppliers
• CAS Services (Project Management/Development and Training)
• Adastra
• Owl
• BT

This is now a legacy site

For up-to-date information on Out-of-Hours please visit: www.dh.gov.uk/outofhours