Why the NHS should keep on using faxes

SIR – I read with interest your report (July 12): “NHS world’s biggest fax machine buyer due to ‘stubborn’ resistance to new technology, say medical leaders”. I would like to explain the reasons for the continued use of fax.

It is currently almost impossible to ensure an adequate level of security in a centralised system that provides access to patients’ electronic medical records – particularly as many of those trying to access the data are in unsecured workplaces. If an operator forgets to disconnect, and another uses the same terminal containing information to which they do not have the access rights, a breach of confidentiality occurs.

With the latest software solutions, it is now very easy to send a fax from a secure webpage, a phone application or an email provider such as Microsoft Outlook by choosing a fax number instead of an email address. The content of the fax is routed electronically as an email, without ever being printed on a paper medium. It can then be easily filed or archived in a network or on a server.

Traditional fax is still used in healthcare sectors around the world because of its high security and the proof of receipt. Indeed, it is almost impossible to manipulate the contents of a fax and intercept it. An additional benefit is that fax allows staff to send signed documents securely, meaning that they could be submitted in a court of law if needed.

The use of email is widespread, but it remains unwise to send certain types of documents containing sensitive information such as credit card numbers and bank account details, which can be used by fraudsters to duplicate an identity.

For the NHS, choosing an alternative to fax is something that requires great caution. Stephane Vidal

Vice President, Marketing and Communications, Xmedius Montreal, Quebec, Canada SIR – The NHS could save millions of pounds by bringing the age at which people are eligible for free prescriptions into line with the state retirement age.

Chris Barmby Tonbridge, Kent