Scotland sets up healthcare knowledge database

The Knowledge Network, which will be managed by NHS Education for Scotland, provides a search engine to 11m pieces of learning and information from over 100 providers. The site is open, but access to some services requires a log-in which will be available to 170,000 health service staff in Scotland as well as those in social services and students. It cost £72,000 to develop the website, with a further £100,000 for a search index system. Launching the system on 7 June 2010, Sturgeon said: "We know that a skilled, motivated and committed workforce, with access to the right knowledge, tools and materials is a key component to delivering the highest quality healthcare for the people of Scotland. "That is why today's announcement on the Knowledge Network is to be welcomed, not only will it save staff time, it will allow them to access a wealth of information which for the first time will be available online in the same place."