Virgin Media Business will provide connectivity and solutions to support the integration of NHS and social care providers after securing Stage 2 compliance certification to the Health and Social Care Network (HSCN).
HSCN is the pan-NHS data network for health and social care organisations that will underpin the integration and transformation of their services. HSCN will replace the 15-year-old N3 national healthcare network provided by BT, and connectivity will be delivered by a variety of suppliers, both centrally and locally.
It is hoped the multi-operator network will promote competition by opening up the marketplace for health and social care providers and allowing them to choose a technology partner that can best serve their requirements.
Other suppliers to have received accreditation from NHS Digital include Manchester-based hosting company UKFast and Redcentric, which will run the peer exchange for the network.
HSCN connectivity from Virgin Media Business will connect health and social care, allowing data to be shared across the sector. Professionals will be able to securely access, edit and share electronic information such as appointments, medical imaging and patient records with colleagues.
Rob Orr, executive director of commercial marketing at Virgin Media Business, said: “HSCN provides us with a unique and exciting opportunity to empower healthcare organisations to unleash their digital potential, achieving greater productivity and improving outcomes for patients. Our Connected Care solutions have a proven history of success in the public sector and provide a solid foundation for reshaping the future of health and social care.”
He added: “Whether it is an NHS Trust enabling staff to work from anywhere at any time, a GP surgery wanting to improve the patient experience through WiFi provision, or a Social Care customer looking to collaborate with local Health organisations, we have the solutions and expertise to help drive that transformation.”