IT deal to save hundreds of millions for the NHS

An agreement struck between NHSX, NHS Digital and Microsoft will save the NHS hundreds of millions of pounds and enable all eligible organisations in England to access Microsoft 365 digital tools.

Guaranteeing significant cost savings for both individual NHS organisations and the NHS as a whole, the agreement will improve productivity, enhance collaboration and strengthen cyber security across healthcare services.

As part of the agreement, Microsoft 365 will be deployed to as many as 1.2 million staff across NHS organisations, including trusts, CCGs, and health Informatics Services, creating a truly joined-up NHS. Following this, staff will be able to communicate more effectively and will have access to the information, applications and services they need, reducing the administrative burden on staff and improving patient safety.

Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health, said: “Adopting the most up to date digital tools and operating systems are crucial for a modern day NHS - allowing staff to work as efficiently as possible which will deliver even better care for patients. We have seen incredible, innovative uses of technology throughout the NHS during the Covid-19 pandemic and this new deal with Microsoft will pave the way for that to continue by ensuring we get the basics right.”

Sarah Wilkinson, CEO at NHS Digital, said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to conclude these negotiations with Microsoft successfully. This deal will allow the NHS to derive productivity and collaboration benefits from the use of numerous Microsoft products and will strengthen cyber security across the system. I would also like to thank Microsoft for allowing NHS Digital to deploy numerous licences at no cost in recent months in response to the pandemic. They have been a superb partner throughout this crisis and we look forward to extending this partnership in the years ahead.”