Following extensive research into global healthcare technology the IMO approached IBM in Dublin with a view to exploring the possibility that both organisations would work together to deliver a number of components of the GP Model. The current work with IBM is focusing on two key areas:

1. Infrastructure
IMO and IBM are working together to design an Information and Communications Technology architecture that will support the components of a GP Practice including a Private Cloud for GPs. The main issues being focused on at present are Data Security, Data Storage/Retrieval, Data Sharing and Decision Support Tools. The objective is that existing practice support systems will be enabled to sit within the infrastructure.

2. Data Gathering
IMO and IBM are looking at ways to identify a tool that has the potential to provide an automated and anonymous data extraction from GP patient records. The data remains within the GP Practice and within the Private Cloud. Any tool developed will provide security and data will only be shared by agreement. Such a system will have great potential for GPs and General Practice.