Over several months, a combined NHS Digital (NHSD) and BJSS team rapidly developed two mobile applications for a regional ambulance service, which allows paramedics to securely access Summary Care Records (SCRs) when out in the field.

This was launched for 76 Ambulance crews in April 2019 and is the first time NHS frontline paramedic staff have had secure and remote access to patient's summary care records, helping them see their patients’ medical history, key personal information and any current illnesses.

This access means medics have the information they need to hand so they can deliver the best possible care for their patients, whether that’s treating them on the scene, taking them to a hospital or referring them to care in their community.

The application, which can be accessed through the paramedics’ iPads, provides the service with secure access to SCRs when out in the field.

Additionally, BJSS worked with the NHS Identity team to create a new cloud-based Identity app. This involves the input of user fingerprints into the mobile app. By using Touch ID on the iPad, the NHS Identity app eradicates the need for a smartcard or being on the HSCN. So far, 4,500 iPads have been issued to staff.

“You've then got access to all the patient records that we never had access to on the road, so that's transformational. Our staff absolutely love the fact that it's really easy - it's not another password and another thing to remember. It's access to the basic information they need about a patient to deliver better care on-scene.” 

CIO

Regional Ambulance ServiceCrucially, the engagement has demonstrated an ability to reduce the need for patients to be admitted to A&E as paramedics can deliver informed treatment at the scene of the emergency. As the solution develops, it is anticipated to reduce the burden on the region's A&Es further and provide emergency care faster than ever before.