IT Contract For Health Care Awarded

A multi-million pound contract has been signed with NI's Department of Health for the provision of information communication technology (ICT) to the health and social care sector in Northern Ireland.

Hewlett-Packard Ltd (HP) agreed the four-year deal, which is valued up to £70 million and covers ICT needs for regional projects within health and social care.

As the technology supplier, HP will provide a range of technical and advisory services as well as hardware and software to health organisations in Northern Ireland.

Having this contract in place will drive up efficiency across the health and social care sector.

NI Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said: "Like any modern organisation, health and social care relies on information technology in order to provide an efficient and effective business.

"It is used to support a number of front line services such as theatre management, cancer screening and ambulance booking," he said, noting these are vital services and as such must run smoothly to ensure people get the right care and treatment.

He said that, with HP as a technology partner, health and social care in Northern Ireland will have improved access to a broad range of goods and services.

Martin Murphy, Managing Director of HP in Ireland said: "The exciting thing about this project is that HP will play a vital role in making a contribution through technology to the delivery of quality health care in Northern Ireland.

"Under this framework HP will provide professional services, products and partner point solutions, enabling them to better adapt to today's demands and meet future challenges.

"By harnessing our global reach, groundbreaking innovation and best practices, HP is able to ensure that technology solutions delivered are best in class," he said.

(BMcC/KMcA)