eConsult, a digital triage system for NHS GPs, A&E and outpatient clinicians, has appointed Rex Cooper as chief technology officer, reporting to co-founder and chief executive Dr Murray Ellender.

In his new role Cooper will focus on tackling technology challenges facing the health sector including data management and more integrated systems. A priority will be ensuring the integrity of patient data in line with NHS requirements and ensuring the technology remains safe for patients.

Cooper has worked in a range of technology-driven transformation roles and previously worked for more than two years as chief technology officer at Your.MD where he was responsible for a new self-care offering alongside an artificial intelligence chatbot with automated medical safety checks, the reconstruction of the company’s content platform and the implementation of a new iOS app. He has also worked at The Guardian and BMJ, where he led the transformation of tech offerings.

Cooper said: “There’s something special about the healthcare sector. I was looking for a role that would give me the opportunity to combine my passion for the world of technology and design, with my passion for doing work that contributes to supporting a better future for society. eConsult has demonstrated that there is a smarter way for patients to access their GP, and quicker ways for them to be triaged in A&E. I’m excited to work with the team to make smarter decisions with data as we work towards stitching systems across the NHS together, and we will do this all with a view to fine-tuning the AI that sits on top of the platform.”

Ellender commented: “Rex has all the ingredients that make an impactful CTO. He’s not only aware of our company mission but understands the technology that is required to make it a reality. We are working towards an NHS that begins digitally for patients and ensures that all patients that require care, receive it from the right practitioner. Building a team that understands this is so important as we are growing at pace, and Rex is 100% the person we need.”

Mark Harmon, strategic and brand director at eConsult added: “We are really excited about Rex joining the growing eConsult team. As we continue to grow into A&E and outpatient departments across the UK, a joined-up approach to our technology is crucial. This is an exciting new chapter for eConsult.”