Cerner deal signed to aid 18 week wait target

Healthcare information technology specialist, Cerner, will be helping trusts in North-west and South-west England to meet the government target for a maximum 18 week wait from GP referral to treatment.

The US-based firm has been awarded two contracts for an integrated solution to support diagnostic imaging services based on Cerner’s PAS (patient administration system) and RIS/PACS (radiology information system/picture archiving and communications system). 

The contracts were awarded by Atos Origin, which provides diagnostic imaging services on behalf of the NHS in the two English regions. The company manages the entire process from appointment booking through to test results reporting for diagnostic services including CT, MRI, x-ray and audiology.

Cerner says the integration it is providing is critical in achieving the two day appointment booking target, with patients being seen and a report provided within 12 working days of the receipt of referral.

Although the exact range of tests will vary according to local needs, the range of investigations to be provided is extensive, covering imaging, neuro-physiology, endoscopy and physical measurement such as ECG, ECHO and hearing aid assessment.

Cerner says the work requires an information system flexible enough to manage the complex nature of referral management, patient scheduling and the procedure and reporting that is very different for each of these services.

Managing director, David Sides said: “We are delighted to have won these two contracts to support the NHS in ensuring that patients are seen within 18 weeks of referral as well as improve the patient’s journey through assessment, diagnosis and treatment.”

Cerner is also showcasing its new medication dispensing machine, CareAware RxStation. The machine automates medication ordering, verification, dispensing and administration, and directly connecting to the electronic patient record, creating a closed-loop system which should contribute to safer and more efficient treatment.