Mobile operators appear to be stepping up a gear in their efforts to woo the UK health and care sector. The latest development is the partnership between Vin Murria’s Advanced Computer Software Group (ACS) and Vodafone UK. ACS is supplying its mobile patient management software, iNurse, as part of Vodafone’s ‘mHealth’ range. Vodafone’s newly launched mHealth package also includes digital pens from Ubisys, lone worker protection from Code5 and secure remote internet access for mobile devices. Orange and Research in Motion are thought to be on the verge of launching similar packages aimed at mobile health and care professionals.
The efficiencies to be gained by effective mobile working for the likes of midwives and social workers are well documented. We see mobility as one area where cash-strapped NHS Trusts and local authorities could make a relatively quick return on investment and therefore be prepared to invest despite pressure on their budgets. Mobile operators clearly see the potential too, as well as the longer term prize of telehealth and telecare service provision. For application providers like ACS, partnering with a Vodafone or Orange at this stage in the game should stand them in good stead as the market evolves.