The robotic process automation (RPA) is able to replace any manual booking service and has already helped create 1,500 appointments in its first few days.
The system sends patients a text message containing a weblink and from here they can choose their preferred date, time and location for their x-ray with arrangements instantly assigned after this.
Previously patients at UHNM have been able to access an x-ray without an appointment, but due to the ongoing pandemic and continuing social distancing rules a system like this has been crucial in managing the patient flow in the hospital.
The system’s algorithm can also consider which imaging centres have suitable availability, as well as other facts such as what investigation is needed and the patient’s age.
Furthermore it can still accommodate for those who do not have access to the internet by sending a report to the scheduling department when a patient does not respond.
Dr Marius Grima, consultant paediatric radiologist at UHNM, said: “We hope to be able to expand this new way of working for the whole of the imaging department, including CT, MRI and ultrasound appointments.
“This will enable our scheduling teams to use their time more effectively, helping patients with complex needs. This really has been a massive team effort made up of clinicians, front-line staff, our IT team and our external partners.
“It is an example of what can be achieved when the agenda is patient-focused and when there is real skills-mix engagement.
We hope to see a reduction in missed appointments by giving patients the choice to schedule their visit to our hospital at a time that is convenient for them at the onset of the booking process.”
Heidi Poole, deputy director of IM&T at UHNM, said: “This is a great initiative led by clinicians and the operational service. It is the trust’s most ambitious development yet with the robots and highlights the opportunities which can be achieved to deliver real benefits for patients and efficiencies for clinical services.”
The RPA service was developed in partnership with Digital Workforce, a leading provider in intelligence-based automation services.
This collaboration is part of a wider programme provided by PSTG which is specialising in providing digital transformation throughout the NHS.
A number of other Trusts have also begun adopting similar services as Health Tech World recently covered when looking at a new NHS 111 appointment booking service, developed by WASP Software.
These systems have also been used to help the vaccination rollout, with Health Call creating a platform to allow frontline staff to schedule their jab.
Juha Järvi, head of healthcare at Digital Workforce, said: “The automation launched by UNHM is by far the most advanced and reimagines the way of working, combining digital and human work seamlessly, rather than just automating the old and existing way of working.”
Gavin Eardley, UHNM Modality Team Leader of Community X-Ray, said: “This robotic process allows our patients the freedom to book their examination at a time convenient to them.
“This is positive for both the patient and the imaging department as it will help reduce patient waiting time and missed appointments.”
