DCSL Software

Helping to shape NHS data management

January 26, 2011

DCSL Software were recently invited to attend a focus group session in Leeds to discuss procurement of software practices within the NHS.

Led by Ben Gregory, Head of Procurement Strategy for the Information Centre for Health and Social Care, the session included a review of current data collection, management and distribution within the NHS.  It is widely agreed that the use of various disparate database applications created over the years make it time consuming and labour intensive to extract information required by various parties interested in all things NHS.  The NHS IC are working on improving this and are engaging with a number of private sector firms to collect advice on how best to solve identified issues.

DCSL's involvement stems from current experience working with a number of departments within the NHS and related organisations, and also our experience when considering other NHS tender based opportunities.  There is no doubt that staff within the NHS constantly strive to improve quality of care and provision of services.  Software is often involved in achieving this, but current procurement methods have created problems for some companies to justify being involved. 

Our views on this and how these issues may be resolved were sought and provided by our Business Development Director, Daniel Hill and we look forward to our recommendations and advice will be taken on board when reshaping procurement and data management in the future.