Prepare Your Surgery For The Isdn Switch Off

What is ISDN?

ISDN is short for Integrated Service Digital Network and can be described as a communication system that simultaneously allows voice, video and data services to be delivered over digital lines.

As part of a trend amongst telecoms providers around the world, in 2015, BT announced it would be phasing out its ISDN networks over the course of five years, ending in 2025 and you will no longer be able to purchase additional ISDN lines after September 2023.

Businesses have therefore been advised not to renew any existing ISDN network contracts and to instead invest in alternative telephone and communication solutions that can support their future growth plans.

What does the switch off mean for my practice?

There’s no need to panic – the ISDN switch off will not be until 2025. But, there is some urgency to change providers as older technology will become obsolete and you can no longer purchase ISDN lines from BT after September 2023. Be mindful and don’t get tied into a lease for equipment you won’t be able to use. Our VoIP solutions can future-proof your surgery as well as saving you money and allowing you much-needed flexibility.

What is the alternative to ISDN?

Our expert recommendation, based on our success implementing more than 60 GP surgeries with telephone systems, is VoIP or Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP phone systems use a SIP Trunk broadband line to help you to make and receive calls. This enables increased flexibility, low-cost calls, multiple disaster recovery solutions and call queuing. These features, combined with hardware onsite, make VoIP the perfect solution for your surgery.

What are the benefits of a VoIP system?

Cost-saving

Outdated systems such as ISDN lines are not only frustrating but also more expensive. Our systems offer a cost-effective solution that comes fully loaded with a host of premium PBX features, previously only offered on high-end phone systems with on-premise hardware. With lower monthly bills, cheaper call costs and premium features as standard, you can upgrade and start saving immediately.

Increase patient satisfaction

34.8% of patients said it was not easy to get through to someone at their GP practice on the phone*. Our solutions allow for call stacking and personalised messages ensuring patients don’t receive the frustrating engaged tone. Patients have the informed choice of waiting to be answered or to call at a later time removing the need for constant redialling.

Enable remote working

Our solutions enable home and remote working options for your doctors and support staff via a mobile telephony app. Should your surgery encounter a local lockdown or a high sickness absence level you may require the flexibility of an upgraded phone system.

Better manage workloads

Our call analytics feature measures and records call volumes providing you with a detailed insight into the demands on your surgery. Detailed reports allow you to better manage your staffing levels and ensure Reception staff can meet demands when required.

Why DVAD?

With over 35 years’ experience of catering for surgeries and practises of all sizes, we offer end-to-end telephone systems and IT solutions. We have a unique way of working that allows us to assess your needs, present bespoke solutions and provide dedicated support at all times. We work in partnership with over 60 GP surgeries to provide them with reliable, cost-effective and flexible solutions that enable them to deliver excellent care for patients.

This past year has shown that yesterday’s thinking won’t work for tomorrow. If outdated systems no longer meet yours or your patients’ needs get in touch to find out about our agile and future-proof telephone and IT solutions.

To book your free assessment with our expert team call 0800 84 999 84 or leave us a message below and we’ll get in touch.