NHS IT scheme plans consultation network

The National Programme for NHS IT (NPfIT) is aiming to address concerns about lack of consultation with patients and doctors with the launch of an open-to-all 'stakeholder network'.

The network is a key element of the structure being developed by the Care Record Development Board (CRDB), which met for the first time last week.

The Board replaced the Clinical Advisory Group and the Patient Advisory Group, both abandoned earlier this year, and aims to develop best practice for the use of NPfIT systems, says chairman Harry Cayton.

'The most important part of whole structure is the stakeholder network because it is the mechanism by which we will communicate in an active way with stakeholders including the professions, patients and the media,' he said.

'The network will operate primarily as virtual network through our website and anyone who wants to join in can do so.'

The board will produce an annual report, to be launched at a yearly conference. The first event will be on 25 November in London and will be about listening to stakeholders' concerns and sharing the processes by which the CRDB will go forward, says Cayton.

The central board's main function will be to respond to concerns raised by stakeholders and to establish and oversee 'action teams' for specific issues.

'Time-limited, focused groups of people with expertise will look at a particular area of work and develop best practice and standards and make recommendations in that area. They will do the real business,' said Cayton.

The board could also have a role in articulating wider issues.

'One of our jobs is to make sure that we keep the NPfIT board aware of the recommendations and difficulties that come to our attention,' said Cayton.