Matthew Taylor
Chief Executive, NHS Confederation
Learn how the NHS can harness health technology, empower patients and bridge workforce gaps for optimal care with strategic digital transformation.
To provide faster, optimal care for patients, the NHS must harness innovations in healthcare technology. However, the most cutting-edge medical software will not improve productivity or patient care without the right digital processes and governance in place for staff, or if the IT infrastructure is outdated and unusable.
Capital funding for NHS digital technology
The health service needs sufficient capital funding to invest in cutting-edge technology and to streamline the entire process — from identifying issues to improving technology infrastructure. NHS Confederation’s recent report shows England has invested less in health capital over several decades compared with similar nations.
A common issue is providers being unable to communicate efficiently, and parts of the system lack the necessary data insight to meet patient demand. Inadequate investment directly impacts patients, staff and productivity. After the next election, increased capital spending should be a top priority for new investments.
Neglecting digital technology, staff and infrastructure could leave the NHS stagnant.
Expanding a digital healthcare workforce
The right workforce is also crucial. We have been eagerly awaiting the digital data and technology (DDaT) workforce plan. This is a highly skilled and specialised workforce, but the NHS has severe problems with recruitment and retention. Thousands of vacant roles significantly hinder the goal of a digital healthcare system. A workforce plan for digital roles will significantly address gaps in workforce capacity, capability and diversity.
This is also a transitional year for the Federated Data Platform (FDP), a promising data interoperability and information-sharing platform. Our members are keen to see how FDP plays out; success will be gauged by how widely it is adopted and how it improves services.
Empowering patient participation
Importantly, patients and carers are empowered by access and control to their health information, allowing greater flexibility and autonomy over their data. The NHS App, patient initiated follow-up (PIFU), wearable technology and virtual wards allow patients to personalise their own care. However, we still need to make the NHS App compatible with external existing apps that patients use, as well as integrate data better.
Neglecting digital technology, staff and infrastructure could leave the NHS stagnant, with only a few impressive tools or software that people can’t effectively use. By systematically focusing on essentials — a well-designed digital care approach, a skilled workforce and appropriate funding — we can look forward to better care across the country.
