DRS Real Time

Real Time is an award winning web based solution that supports the generation and population of rotas for healthcare staff. It helps with planning and optimising rotas, taking into account factors such as specialty cover, annual leave, shift swaps and unexpected absence, it also acts as a hub for communication between junior doctors and the rota manager, as well as providing staff around your trust with accurate information of who is on shift, and how they can be contacted. The tool also helps ensure that shifts are performed by well rested doctors working within legal European Working Time Directive (EWTD) 2009 compliant hours and contractual rest requirements, providing accurate compliance analysis as rotas are updated.

For further information or support using Real Time, contact the Tools helpdesk on tools.team@skillsforhealth.org.uk or 0161 266 2261.

Rota patterns are designed using the Doctors Rostering System (DRS). These patterns are used in Real Time and rules are set according to the needs of the department; defining the minimum cover required in the day, translating to the mix of doctors that are available at night (which must also meet a set of rules).

Doctors' details are entered and the software runs through permutations of possible rotas according to the rules, identifying clashes and potential risk to service. The software still requires the rota master to decide when and if a clash is acceptable eg the consultant may be on holiday that week or a locum is being sourced. Therefore, the software does not negate the need for a traditional human rota master, but it allows for much more effective management of shift working. In addition, the software can be used to complement the training needs of doctors by adding levels of clinic availability that may not be catered for by traditional rostering methods.

The tool originated with and was funded by NHS North West in partnership with Skills for Health - Workforce Projects Team (WPT). It has been developed and piloted with Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust (CMFT), who provided feedback throughout the production process with Dr John Bright and medical staffing coordinator Anna Finbow. It is currently being rolled out to further pilot trusts including across London and the North West.

How it helps your organisation
Real Time helps produce sustainable rotas that ensure there is a better balance of staff available throughout the day, as well as checking compliance with EWTD and giving staff a better work/life balance.