Quick Summary
The University Hospitals of Northamptonshire (UHN) Group has officially announced the launch date for its maternity electronic patient record (EPR) system, addressing previous concerns regarding the lack of an implementation timeline.
Key Details
- The BadgerNet maternity EPR system, developed by System C, will be implemented at Kettering General Hospital in Summer 2025.
- Northampton General Hospital is set to follow suit by the end of 2025.
- UHN Group has assured that the transition will not disrupt current care arrangements.
- The new system aims to align with national maternity standards to enhance patient care and staff experience.
Background and Concerns
- Concerns were raised in a board paper dated August 2, 2024, highlighting potential operational risks due to the absence of a go-live date.
- A spokesperson clarified that the implementation date has now been confirmed, alleviating previous worries.
Implementation Timeline
- The BadgerNet EPR is scheduled to go live at Kettering General Hospital on July 8, 2025.
- Confirmation for the launch date at Northampton General Hospital is pending from System C.
System Features
- BadgerNet is a paperless system that integrates early pregnancy, gynecology, and maternity records into a single pregnancy record accessible across multiple sites.
Support and Training
- Nick Wilson, CEO of System C, stated that training for the new system will commence soon, with ongoing support provided throughout the implementation phase.
Broader Context
- UHN Group joins other NHS organizations, such as University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, which implemented BadgerNet in June 2024.
- Plans for BadgerNet implementation are also underway in three trusts in the South West of England for 2025.
- The Welsh government has announced that BadgerNet is expected to be available across Wales by March 2026.
Future Developments
- Croydon Health Services NHS Trust is seeking to enhance its maternity EPR system, indicating a trend towards digital transformation in maternity services across the NHS.