Written Question · S4W-25661 · Session 4
In light of the closure of the TrakCare system in the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde area for a 20-hour period in November 2014 for upgrade …
The question
To ask the Scottish Government, in light of the closure of the TrakCare system in the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde area for a 20-hour period in November 2014 for upgrade work, whether it (a) took steps to ensure this could not be repeated and, if so, what, (b) advised the other NHS boards that use the system that the contractor could take such action and (c) has taken action to ensure that contracts for such services specify that such interruptions should not take place.
The answer
The planned downtime that was required in November 2014 was as a result of a major version upgrade. Such upgrades are infrequent and are planned in full consultation with clinical teams. Such planning ensures that appropriate contingencies are in place and that disruption to the continuity and safety of patient services is minimal. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde have been in ongoing discussions with the system supplier to work to reduce the overhead of future upgrades. During the period when Trakcare was unavailable, full access was available to the clinical portal that contains the full electronic patient record. The Personal Medical Services Strategic Oversight Group with membership drawn from Trakcare boards meets regularly to discuss a range of issues including minimising disruption during upgrades. There are contractual arrangements in place which specify penalties for unplanned interruptions in service.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S4W-25661 by reference.