Armed forces to scrap ‘archaic’ paper record system in bid to boost recruitment
Armed forces to make major change to increase recruitment
- The armed forces are investing £7.8 million to replace their paper-based medical record system, which dates back to the First World War, with a digital one.
- By 2027, the new system will align with the digitised records currently used by the NHS, aiming to streamline processes.
- The Ministry of Defence states the move will boost recruitment, improve deployability, and facilitate a smoother transition for personnel entering civilian life.
- Veterans and people minister Louise Sandher-Jones highlighted that the current system slows recruitment and creates issues for those leaving the military, which the new system will address.
- The £7.8 million contract for the new system has been awarded to Leeds-based software company The Phoenix Partnership, following a previous £2.5 million investment for the Mercury application.