NHS Scotland has rolled out Microsoft Teams to more than 160,000 workers, including health boards and those on the frontline in hospitals, NHS24, Health Protection Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service.
It means staff can securely upload, share and work on the same online files at the same time from wherever they are. As well as holding virtual meetings, healthcare workers can contact colleagues by secure instant messaging and direct audio or video calls.
Colin Sinclair, Chief Executive of NHS National Services Scotland, said: “This unprecedented event, combined with a lockdown of the UK, has led to an unequivocal need to open up digital communications to help the NHS save lives. In response to the challenges of the pandemic, NHS Scotland has accelerated the rollout of Microsoft Teams, so that it is available to all of our staff.
“I thank the IT teams whose determination has made this possible within challenging timescales. There is much work ahead, but I encourage all NHS colleagues to use Microsoft Teams as their secure communication and collaboration tool as we respond to support Scotland’s health and wellbeing in these unparalleled times.”
Teams will allow staff across Scotland to collaborate, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, despite having to restrict travel, meet online, isolate wards, self-quarantine and work remotely.
Cindy Rose, Chief Executive of Microsoft UK, added: “Microsoft is fully committed to assisting the NHS at this incredibly challenging time. Our team has worked closely with NHS Scotland to accelerate the rollout of Microsoft Teams to all Boards across the country.
