2023 Highlights Day 10: National M365 Cross-Organisation Collaboration Programme
Enhancing Collaboration in Scotland's Health & Care Sector with M365
In 2022, we embarked on a groundbreaking journey with the launch of the M365 Cross-Organisation Collaboration Programme. Our mission: to revolutionise communication and collaboration among Health & Care professionals across Local Government and NHS Scotland. Aligned with the Digital Health & Care Strategy's second aim, this programme aspires to create a future where seamless communication and information sharing between cross-organisation health & care teams are the norm, making it easier for staff to serve the citizens of Scotland effectively. This initiative marks a significant milestone as the nation's first concerted effort to foster collaboration across 54 organisations through the utilisation of a single platform.
A Unified Vision
The programme is overseen by a dedicated national team, promoting cooperation among 32 Councils, 14 Territorial Health Boards, NHS National Services Scotland, NHS Education for Scotland, Scottish Government, and COSLA (Convention of Scottish Local Authorities). Our structured, collaborative approach encourages knowledge-sharing and collective problem-solving.
Phase One Successes
Phase One is already delivering impressive results. It focuses on enabling Outlook calendar-sharing (free/busy information only) and Teams chat/calls between health and care staff. Some key achievements include:
-
60% of Councils are now live, with 25% actively in progress.
-
An impressive 94% engagement rate from Local Government and 86% from Territorial Health Boards.
Real Impact, Real Stories
Feedback from four participating organisations speaks volumes about the tangible impact of the National Programme:
-
Quick, focused meetings have streamlined the transition from hospital to home for service users.
-
Teams video meetings have strengthened working relationships across Health & Social Care Partnerships.
-
Access to contact information has proven beneficial for Social Work Adult Services.
-
Collaboration is now more efficient, enabling quicker connections between colleagues from the NHS and Councils.
-
Fewer rescheduled meetings and improved attendance reflect the principle of 'right first time'.
Jonathan Cameron, Deputy Director - Digital Health and Care in Scottish Government, commended the progress made, stating, "It is fantastic to see the progress made and the early benefits that the programme has delivered, and looking forward to the potential that Phase Two will bring."
Phase Two and Beyond
With Phase Two underway, our National Programme has its sights set on enabling secure information sharing across Local Government and NHS Scotland, along with exploring opportunities for cost savings. Anticipation is high for the continued transformation in subsequent phases.
As Angus Council aptly put it, "Anecdotal evidence suggests that free/busy calendar availability is excellent, but the real transformation will come in Phase Two and beyond". The journey towards seamless cross-organisational collaboration continues.
If you'd like to learn more about the National Cross-Organisation Collaboration Programme, please don't hesitate to reach out to info@digitaloffice.scot.
Portfolio
Projects
News & ViewsJoin the dots
We can help you join the dots, laying the path for your digital transformation journey. It’s time to do.
Discover More