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Publish date: 9 June 2025
Colleagues from across Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (CRH), University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust (UHDB) and Derbyshire Support and Facilities Services (DSFS) were recognised with a 'Collaborative Procurement Initiative' award at the UK National GO Awards, that recognises the procurement of services, the important first step in the final success of a project that can often go under the radar.
The first module of Nervecentre's EPR launched across the two Trusts simultaneously on 4 February 2025, marking a huge change in the way in which patient care is delivered.
The digital system benefits both colleagues and patients due to its ability to centralise patient records onto a single digital system. Since its launch, frontline colleagues have shared feedback that they spend more time treating patients now that they have access to detailed patient information instantly, at the click of a button on handheld devices.
The team were for commended for their exceptional work in successfully procuring the EPR across multiple Trusts, and showcasing their ability to 'embrace the idea that collaboration knows no borders to achieve their goals'.
In celebrating the work of teams Jon Cort, Chief Digital Officer at CRH said, "Winning this award is a proud moment and a testament to the power of collaboration. This joint EPR procurement project between Chesterfield Royal Hospital and University Hospitals of Derby and Burton is a truly unified approach to digital transformation across Trusts. It's a vital step in delivering better, safer care for our patients, and I couldn’t be prouder of the dedication and vision shown by everyone involved."
Stuart Ellis, Commercial and Strategy Director, DFSF, said, "This national recognition highlights what can be achieved through innovative thinking and close partnership. The success of this joint EPR procurement project reflects months of tireless work, strategic alignment, and a shared commitment to delivering value for the NHS. It sets a benchmark for future collaborative procurement projects across the country. I’m extremely proud of our procurement teams in delivering this project."
Debbie Loke, Executive Chief Digital Information Officer at UHDB, reflected on the award win, "Our EPR journey has been founded on collaboration and teams have been exemplary, highlighted by the fact that over 3500 clinical hours went into this procurement. I am proud that our teams have been recognised by winning this award, which highlights their dedication, passion and expertise, as they have worked collaboratively to deliver digital improvements that will benefit patients and our colleagues for many years to come."
The EPR system, which has helped to streamline services, is estimated to deliver 4.9 million hours back to patient care for staff across both Trusts over the course of seven years. It continues to be rolled out in a phased approach across the two Trusts throughout 2025 and 2026.