Nursing technology fund launched by NHS England

The government has announced the launch of a new fund aimed at helping nurses, midwives and care staff to invest in new technology to help improve patient care.

Valued at 100 million pounds, the nursing technology fund was originally announced by prime minister David Cameron last year and is now open for bids.

It will be used to fund mobile and digital technology to allow staff to work more flexibly and effectively, thereby helping them do their jobs better, increase patient safety, create an improved patient experience and reduce paperwork.

Digital pens, tablets and notebooks will be purchased using the money, 30 million pounds of which will be spent on projects for delivery in 2013/14, with the remainder covering 2014/15.

Health secretary Jeremy Hunt said: "Nurses and midwives chose their profession because they wanted to spend time caring for patients, not filling out paperwork. New technology can make that happen."

Jane Cummings, chief nursing officer for England, added that this is an important development, as technology plays a greater role in healthcare provision than ever before.