NHS Communications
Last edited 11 Mar 2022
NHS App
Add end to end encrypted messaging, VOIP phone with and without video similar to Whatsapp & Signal Messenger apps.
Most NHS users are familiar with these so use a similar interface.
Environmental Cost
Manufacturing one tonne of paper products requires an average of 11.5 gigajoules of energy.
Energy is a resource that needs to be used wisely. Currently much power generation uses carbon based fuels leading to greenhouse gas emissions causing climate instability and endangering all living species including humans
Cost Considerations
In early 2022 letters sent from the NHS hospital cost £0.48 postage. There is also cost of paper, envelopes, printer supplies and an admin staff cost to stuff envelopes and maintain stocks and printers.
Much of this cost could be better redirected towards new medical staff and/or new medical equipment if electronic communication was used more widely by NHS staff
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Email Use
NHSmail
https://www.england.nhs.uk/ourwork/clinical-policy/ordering-medication-using-proxy-access/getting-a-secure-email-account-a-guide-for-social-care-organisations/getting-a-secure-email-service/
NHSmail is a centrally funded, managed, secure email service designed to allow confidential information to be shared.
NHSmail email addresses all end in ‘nhs.net’.
ProtonMail
A secure email service based in Switzerland