Health care is on the brink of a new frontier. The digital technologies that have transformed our lives – the way we shop, bank and travel – are now set to transform health and social care in an exciting digital revolution.
With an ageing population and increasing pressures on the NHS, digital health technology could revolutionise our health care system, saving money and helping more people access the care they need, when they need it.
In fact, in 2019, Matt Hancock, Secretary of State warned that the NHS needs to adopt technology to survive – delivering savings to the taxpayer, saving lives, and meeting public demand in an increasingly digital world.
So what can digital health care bring to the NHS?
1. Free up time
By automating basic manual processes, like booking systems and paperwork, digital health technology give precious time back to doctors and nurses, so they can focus on providing the best care for their patients.
2. Improve clinical outcomes
Digital self-monitoring tools allow patients to monitor their own conditions, putting them back in the driving seat. With more control over their condition, people tend to manage it better, leading to better clinical outcomes for both patients and the NHS.
3. Convenient for patients
For many people, taking time off work for appointments and tests can be a burden. Not anymore. Digital health care allows patients to take tests and readings from home, on-the-go or from holidays abroad, without the need to travel to a GP or hospital.
4. Secure information sharing
Quality digital health partners enable the NHS to share patient information safely and securely. Digital providers should follow robust data security processes and information governance accreditations, such as NHS N3 security, IG toolkit and eGIF11.
5. Join up health and social care
With improved sharing of records, NHS staff can access information about their patients whenever they need it, no matter what team they work on. Health and care workers can have a full 360 view of a patient’s needs, so they can deliver the right care at the right time, without doubling up on work.