Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust embarked on a critical journey to upgrade its digital infrastructure, focusing on the procurement and implementation of a new Trust Integration Engine (TIE) as part of its Digital Health Programme. This initiative is a key stepping stone toward a larger goal: transitioning to a fully integrated Electronic Patient Record (EPR) system.

Apira was brought on board to complete the stalled project and took swift action, providing guidance and support to ensure the successful selection and ensure the successful selection and onboarding of a new TIE system.

Objectives

Procure a modern Trust Integration Engine (TIE) that meets current and future needs
Ensure seamless migration of legacy systems to a cloud-based platform
Build the foundation for a future Electronic Patient Record (EPR) system
Select the right delivery partners for ongoing support and integration of the TIE

Key Achievements

Procurement of the HealthConnect TIE Solution:
Apira facilitated a thorough evaluation of potential suppliers, guiding the Trust in selecting HealthConnect from InterSystems as the new TIE solution. This decision was based on its ability to meet both current operational needs and future scalability.
Delivery Partner Selection:
The Apira team helped Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust identify and onboard the right delivery partners, ensuring that the selected vendors could provide the necessary implementation support and ongoing services.
Successful Migration of Legacy Interfaces:
The Trust began the migration of its legacy interfaces to HealthConnect Cloud, with Apira providing critical oversight to ensure that the transition was smooth and secure, without disrupting ongoing operations.
Project Rescue and Recovery:
To ensure the eventual success of the then stalled project, Apira stepped in to provide leadership and direction, swiftly getting the project back on track.

Challenges Overcome

Project Support:
Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust were without essential support for project, resulting in the risk of further delays and uncertainty. Apira’s ability to step in quickly and take control of the situation was key to getting the project back on course.

Complex Procurement Environment:
Navigating the NHS procurement process is notoriously complex, especially when multiple suppliers and solutions are being evaluated. Apira’s experience in managing these processes allowed the Trust to make informed decisions, ensuring compliance with governance and selection of the most advantageous solution.

Future-Proofing for EPR Integration:

A key challenge was ensuring that the chosen TIE would not only meet current needs but also be scalable and adaptable for future requirements. Apira’s team made sure that InterSystems’ HealthConnect solution would align with the Trust’s long-term digital transformation strategy, particularly in preparation for the transition to a new EPR system.

Lessons Learned and Best Practices

Effective Stakeholder Communication:
Clear, consistent communication with stakeholders, from technical teams to senior management, was crucial to the project’s success. Regular updates, transparent decision-making, and well-organised meetings ensured that all parties were aligned with the project’s goals.
Early Partner Engagement:
Establishing strong partnerships with the Trust, suppliers, and delivery partners early in the project was a key factor in overcoming challenges during the implementation phase.

“We have received great support from Elliot and the Team with our most recent IT procurement project at the Trust. They helped us navigate the governance whilst ensuring we evaluated appropriately to select the right product to meet the Trust’s needs and project objectives. They ensured we communicated to all stakeholders clearly and, when required, coordinated meetings and sessions. The information prepared for me was excellent and really helped in a busy, fast-paced environment.”

Oliver Field

Systems Integration and Development Manager

Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust

Looking Ahead

This project has laid the groundwork for Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust’s digital future. With the HealthConnect TIE now in place, the Trust is well-positioned to proceed with its EPR implementation, creating a more integrated and efficient healthcare delivery system. Through Apira’s expert guidance and commitment, the Trust has successfully overcome significant challenges, positioning itself for continued success in its digital transformation journey.

To find out more about how Apira can help your Trust, please get in touch with David Corbett david.corbett@apira.co.uk

Trust Integration Engine (TIE) Project for Buckinghamshire NHS Healthcare Trust