NHS in barcode bid for savings

NEW TECH: Scanning HOSPITALS are set to use supermarket-style barcodes in a bid to save millions of pounds.

The system, trialled in six hospitals, lets staff keep track of equipment and supplies.

Every item, from scalpels and linen to orthopaedic implants and pacemakers will get a barcode for staff to read using a hand-held scanner.

Called Scan4Safety, the system can help determine whether products are still in date, slash needless stockpiling and also help track patients who have been given implants which turn out to be faulty.

After tests in Derby, Leeds, Salisbury, Cornwall, North Tees and Plymouth, scanning could soon be rolled out across England.

Figures show each hospital would save £11million a year by adopting the scheme.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said: “Technology can have enormous benefits.

“This is a great example of where a… simple piece of technology can make a world of difference and free up clinicians so they can spend more time with patients.”

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