Shaping the post-COVID-19 "New Normal" with Communication and Collaboration Platforms: state of the art communications for radiology, oncology, MDTs and beyond

The COVID-19 pandemic has driven the use of digital communications to unprecedented levels across society whilst the NHS struggles with non-compatible IT systems that are often outdated and inhibit effective communication. MDTs use teleconferencing but the IT infrastructure does not permit clinicians to readily discuss cases and collaboratively review imaging outside of formal meetings if not on the same site and face-to-face. NHS radiology home reporting was not widely in place at the outbreak of the pandemic. Paper records persist further inhibiting remote working. Email has degraded the quality of written communication leading to suggestions of a ‘broken’ email culture. Despite NHS policy ambitions to address radiologist under capacity with increased networking and collaboration between providers the IT infrastructure has proven inadequate. Modern Communication and Collaboration Platforms have functionality that cuts across the non-compatible IT restrictions with screen sharing a key enabler. By engaging with these platforms radiologists and oncologists have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to shape the ‘new normal’ of delivery of healthcare with superior quality communication practices exceeding those in place at the outbreak of the pandemic.