Telford and Wrekin: Nearly all GPs have broadband technology
All but two of Telford & Wrekin's doctors' surgeries have so far been kitted out with internet based telephone systems to improve services to patients.
The borough's GP led clinical commissioning group CCG is rolling out new ‘voice over internet protocol telephony’, or VOIP, and broadband phone lines at medical centres.
Since the scheme got the green light almost two years ago, 12 out of 14 medical centres had the equipment installed with the remaining GPs to follow this spring.
Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit spokesman Richard Caddy said: “Almost all GP practices within Telford & Wrekin are now live on the system with two further to convert during the first three months of 2019."
The project to install VOIP, virtual technology and WiFi in all its doctors’ surgeries was approved after NHS England was successful in attracting funding to assist GPs as part of a regional scheme.
The cost of the programme has not been revealed.
Wellington Medical Practice was the first to be covered by Telford & Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group to get the new equipment following problems with phone access to services.
Telecommunication service providers, such as BT, have been phasing out the use of traditional ISDN circuits in favour of the new technology.
There are also CCG plans to invest in Skype and Telehealth systems to allow long distance staff and patient contact.
