Microsoft agreement saves health dollars

Microsoft agreement saves health dollars

A new agreement signed between the Health Sector and Microsoft is helping Government to achieve its goal of an adaptive, innovative and continually improving health system.

The Ministry of Health, ACC, DHBs and the New Zealand Blood Service have confirmed their commitment to the collective sector agreement.

Their signing follows extensive negotiation between the sector and Microsoft, after attempts to renew the all-of-Government agreement earlier this year were unresolved.

“This is a great example of the health sector working together and getting collective benefit,” says DHB CIO forum chair Alan Grainer.

The agreement will deliver greater flexibility and cost savings, including the ability to transfer licenses between users. In some instances, one person can be licensed across a number of sites.

Led by a cross-sector steering group, the Ministry has signed a head agreement, with DHBs and other agencies signing under the agreement.

“Having all contracts up for renewal at the same time will enable the sector to negotiate together when it is time for the contracts to be resigned, says Alan.”

The agreement also takes into account the changing nature of the health sector, and provides the ability to make amendments as reforms unfold.

Another Ministry goal – that leadership and planning are clear, effective and co-ordinated – is also being met, with the Ministry of Health taking on a lead agency role.

“One of the Ministry’s priority outcomes is that every health dollar is spent in the best way to improve health outcomes,” said Ministry of Health Information Directorate Deputy-Director General Alan Hesketh. “By working together, we have been able to sign a deal that means better value for the sector and that translates to saving taxpayer dollars.”

ENDS