While disruptive team communication platforms can massively ease remote work, they can also help health workers, especially in this overwhelming period of time for health workers. To do so, Microsoft just announced that NHS staff will be able to use its Microsoft Teams solution for free so they can quickly and efficiently communicate with their colleagues during the Coronavirus outbreak. So a huge save of time for our struggling NHS workers who're facing this very difficult and stressing virus storm.
Microsoft Teams is a communication and collaboration platform combining a workplace chat, video meetings, file storage and collaboration, and application integration. The service integrates with the company's Office 365 subscription office productivity suite and features extensions that can integrate with non-Microsoft products.
NHS key workers will be able to use instant messaging and audio and video calls to share advice and updates on their patients, wherever they are.
“Technology is key to supporting patients who are self-isolating and makes sure they have the information they need and access to medical support and advice. For doctors and NHS staff this means that working remotely becomes much easier and more practical.” - Ian Phoenix, Director of Technology at NHS Digital
Since March 16, NHS Digital is rolling Teams out to all NHSmail users, and NHS organisations that are not using the NHSmail system will also be given free access to Teams by applying directly to Microsoft. The teams will also have access to NHS Digital’s NHSmail support site to support them in this roll-out.
“Microsoft is fully committed to assisting the NHS at this incredibly challenging time. The use of Microsoft Teams will ensure the hardworking doctors, nurses and support staff across all NHS organisations have the collaboration tools they need to carry out their vital work. We are hugely appreciative of their ongoing efforts to tackle COVID-19 and will continue to provide support however best we can.” - Cindy Rose, Chief Executive of Microsoft UK
