Why Doctor Rostering Is in Desperate Need of Digital Transformation

It’s no secret that our healthcare system is under massive strain. Before the pandemic, problems caused by staff shortages, patient waiting lists, and a desire to drive efficiencies through digital transformation were already putting pressure on the NHS. These problems have been exacerbated following the disruption caused by COVID-19. During the winter of 2021/22, research by the British Medical Association (BMA) estimated that the UK’s healthcare sector was short of 50,000 doctors – an average shortfall of more than 200 in every NHS trust.

There are reports, too, of workforce burnout reaching dangerous levels, with the Royal College of Physicians recently stating that 20% of its members feel overwhelmed at work every day. 

Incredibly, progress in this area has gained little ground over the last 20 years, despite the rapid proliferation of smartphone devices and the widespread availability of the internet. But there are now tools available to overhaul doctor rostering, using mobile apps to provide doctors with a clearer picture of their working schedules.