The size and scale of the NHS cannot be understated. With 1.2 million employees working in trusts across NHS England, a one-size-fits-all approach isn’t suitable. Instead, it requires a more bespoke route to understand the needs and setup of individual trusts for maximum impact and cost reduction. 

A properly enabled digital front door can aid the NHS by improving workstreams, which positively impact patient and employee experiences. However, failing to address the translational gap through inadequate engagement with workers could result in an unsuccessful implementation. 

Harmonisation between new technology and legacy systems, on-premises and in-cloud, is key. Trusts operate across over 70 systems covering health and social care throughout the NHS. 1.5 million devices rely on these systems, including laptops, desktops, and servers.

The 2027 switch from analogue to digital is approaching, requiring us to consider next steps. The closure of Public Switch Telephone Network (PSTN) services means, for those yet to make the move, various voice solutions must be assessed to determine the best digital service for their organisation.

For the NHS, when considering the move to digital, a cloud-based service may be a natural fit. Many trusts already on the central NHS tenant are making use of Microsoft Teams, a cloud-based service will enable the use of voice services as well. 

Microsoft Teams was first rolled out across the NHS in March 2020 in response to the pandemic. Since then, it’s helped facilitate remote and flexible working, virtual consultations, and improved patient experience, all while offering a consistent platform for collaboration. 

If you’re concerned about replacing your existing PSTN phone systems ahead of the 2027 deadline, the answer may be simpler than you think. Rather than replacing a network of traditional phone devices, many existing PSTN devices can be incorporated into Teams, turning it into a complete communications tool with Teams for Direct Routing at a reduced cost.

This means you can make and receive external calls whether you’re using a desk-based phone or a mobile device. Existing phone numbers can be easily migrated, and with our session layer, we can also manage short code dialling. In its simplest form, all you need is an internet connection to access the cloud. This same connection can support your voice services, operating as an all in one service.

Not every organisation is positioned to handle a migration alone. That’s why we’re supporting the NHS with our decades of experience across voice and Microsoft technologies. We’re here to help future-proof through Teams with Direct Routing. No matter your approach, we know exactly what it takes to provide a resilient solution that can cater to the requirements of the NHS. 

• Our voice capabilities are integrated with Microsoft Azure deployments.
• You’ll never be left in the dark– our team of over 3,000 security experts proactively monitor our networks day and night.
• Our User Adoption Services enable employees to quickly learn the fundamentals of their new technology.
• With over 25 years of partnership innovation, together with Microsoft, BT empowers you to get the most out of your voice services.