The UK, Manchester-based healthcare information systems firm iSOFT has been promoted to the City of London’s premier division after being added to the FTSE 250 index.

Inclusion in the index reflects the increased value of iSOFT’s shares, following the firm’s flotation in June 2000. Since floating at 110p per share in June 2000 with a valuation of £123 million, iSOFT shares have steadily risen in value, with the company now worth over £350 million.

Tim Whiston, iSOFT’s group finance director said, “By focusing solely on provision of innovative healthcare information systems, we have built a leading business that has consistently outperformed the technology market."

Whiston added: "We are also well-placed to take advantage of supplier-side rationalisation, and will be actively considering opportunities to acquire complementary technologies and increase our market share.”

In the same week as entering the FTSE 250, iSOFT was also honoured in its home town, winning a Manchester Evening News ‘new business of the year award’.