The NHS is set to cut costs after upgrading it N3 broadband network to include VoIP.

BT infrastructure has recently been used to create fast data links between systems across the health organisation, but voice connections were not thought originally to be part of the plan.

But the programme director for the N3 network, Len Chard, said VoIP will now be included to allow calls to be made between sites for free.

By its internal call-costs being reduced to zero, Mr Chard said the NHS would save around £6 million a year, but this will be added to the £15 million expected saving from reduced rates on landline to mobile phone calls.

With both its data and voice systems being on the same network, the NHS hopes to be able to prioritise time-sensitive data, such as VoIP calls, above normal traffic on the network to ensure they remain stable.

"Being IP and every site being connected enables lots more advantages in terms of productivity and services to be developed," added Mr Chard.

However, the roll-out and take-up of the VoIP service will take some time, according to Mr Chard, as it is a "massive undertaking".