CfH developing new voice services for N3

Connecting for Health and N3 have announced that they are developing a series of voice over internet protocol (VOIP) services on the N3 network, due to be launched this spring.

Working with users, the two providers are aiming to provide new voices services which will enable users to enhance their existing N3 connection. BT this week said that they plan to launch a VOIP servivce to the NHS in the near future.

CfH say they will be sending out communications throughout January to March 2007 to users advising them of the new services, which will include voice over IP and hosted IP telephony, with the N3 Service Provider (N3SP) managing the infrastructure and billing process for a trusts’ IP telephony.

This will include two service levels, users can either take a fully managed hosted service or a lighter touch service enabling trusts to provide more local support and self-manage the local infrastructure.

A fixed line to a mobile gateway, routing calls to mobiles through the N3 Wide Area Network to mobile operators will also be offered and N3SP will also offer new gateway services, providing managed equipment at NHS sites to connect existing on-site infrastructure to the N3 Voice Network.

Anyone who wants to get involved with the project or would like more information about N3 Voice Services should contact the N3SP Helpdesk on 0800 085 0503 or contact a member of the N3SP Engagement Team.