Building a ‘digital-first’ culture
With a significant proportion (34%) of NHS professionals saying it will take up to 10 years to close the digital divide in healthcare, there is obviously a need to ramp up solutions that bridge the gap. A few key obstacles appear to be in the way of a digital-first culture in the NHS.
Overhauling legacy systems is a massive undertaking and can potentially bring with it a lot of disruption. And concerns about maintaining the same standard of care with new solutions can foster a sense of trepidation.
41% of respondents cite resistance to change as a significant barrier.
Technology providers play a crucial role here. They can work with you to create an implementation plan that makes taking on new technology as seamless as possible. They can also identify secure network solutions that adhere to strict protocols and data privacy regulations.
Additionally, providers can offer ongoing technical support and guidance to demonstrate to NHS staff the value that effective use of new technology can bring to them and to patients.
This all requires open communication and transparency between NHS stakeholders. By clearly outlining the benefits and addressing concerns related to new technologies, they can all be actively engaged in the digital transformation journey.
A barrier to implementing a fully digitised system is the recent rise in cyber-attacks on patients and organisations’ data, which is creating concern amongst clinicians and therefore impacting uptake. Implementing robust cybersecurity controls must be high on the agenda for ICBs to provide reassurance for health workers and patients as we move towards a fully digitally transformed future in healthcare.
Funding constraints are another obvious barrier, with 49% identifying limited investment holding them back. The financial commitment and navigation of budgetary limitations can understandably be difficult water to tread.
In our Public Sector Tech Untapped report we found that 96% of respondents in the healthcare sector said their trust had some element of inefficient technology, and 42% have difficulty integrating new technology with existing systems.
To address this, work with your technology suppliers to prioritise and evaluate your current tech stack and identify areas where existing technology can be optimised or leveraged more effectively – especially where staff can be upskilled on existing tools. Focus on getting the most out of your existing technology before scaling further. This avoids unnecessary spending and allows for a more controlled approach to new technology adoption.Promoting positive tech dialogue and having first-hand experience of how to operate new solutions, alongside exploring alternative funding models like public-private partnerships, can help pave the way for sustainable investment.
Ensure staff understand how and why improved tech leads to better patient outcomes.
Use your digital champions to help upskill and support staff with the shift to more digital tools.
Evaluate your IT stack and identity the priority areas that can be modernised while getting the most out of what you already have.
