RCN responds to news that NHS IT system may be shelved

Published: 07 December 2009

Following the announcement by Alistair Darling on the Andrew Marr show (BBC One, Sunday 6th December) that the NHS IT system may be shelved, Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive & General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), said:
 
"We are encouraged to hear that the Government is considering shelving the NHS IT system, which has cost the NHS billions of pounds in recent years. Having an effective IT system is important for innovation in the NHS, and for improving patient care and safety. However, in the current tough economic climate it is crucial that money is not diverted away from the frontline services that directly impact on patient care."

Notes to editors

For further information, interviews or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit http://www.rcn.org.uk/news/mediacentre.php

Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations.