A new policy was introduced in 2022 to help staff navigate their way through the development, governance and use of apps.
The following video has been created to talk you through the process:
Apps Governance in NHSL Lanarkshire
When you want to create an app, you should go to the FirstPort page where you will find the correct form. There are two forms to choose from:
- Apps that are designed from scratch, exclusively for NHS Lanarkshire use
- Apps that are already in existence from an external supplier that will be adapted for our use
These forms will help to guide you through the steps to take to get app approval and can be used as a checklist. For example, the form will ask you about your governance group, funding, DPIA status and copyright check.
All these areas need to be considered and completed before any app will go forward for approval in NHS Lanarkshire.
You will find help and contact details listed on the FirstPort site if you are unsure about specific areas that you need to consider before commissioning this work.
All completed forms then go forward for consideration to the app governance group. This group meets quarterly and uses the form to ensure you have followed the correct steps before your app is launched.
The app governance group is made up of members from across NHS Lanarkshire, such as information governance, eHealth, evidence and communications.
When the form is completed, you will get initial feedback in case anything is missing. Only forms with all the required information will go forward for consideration. You can attend the app governance group to talk about your app development. You will also get formal feedback with any required action as an email after the meeting.
If you have any questions on this process, or need help with any specific areas of app development please contact amanda.minns@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk
The policy is available on the NHS Lanarkshire website here.
There is also further information on FirstPort to help you through the process if you decide to design or use apps with staff and/or patients.
