The NHS has had a digital revolution over the last few years
The NHS has had a digital revolution over the last few years. Since then, many health conditions have
progressed with apps etc, and certain teams and areas are moving ahead faster than others.
This brings a risk that people will get left behind.
What can the NHS do to make sure patients don’t suffer from digital
exclusion?
Look at the high-level benefits of digital and teams and areas that are leading the way.
What are they doing to bring their patients (and staff/doctors) on the journey.
Not everyone has access to digital devices and NHS is becoming digitally & technologically advanced at very
fast speed; how is this cohort supported?
Look at best practice within the NHS and the public sector.
How has industry managed this – example online banking
How other countries & Sectors have adopted to this issue
The NHS has embraced a digital revolution, offering numerous benefits with apps, online services, and remote consultations. However, this rapid advancement poses a risk of digital exclusion, leaving some patients behind. This report explores strategies to ensure everyone has access to these advancements.
Benefits of Digital Healthcare
- Improved Patient Experience: Online appointments, prescription refills, and health information access offer greater convenience and control for patients.
- Enhanced Communication: Secure messaging platforms facilitate better communication between patients and healthcare providers.
- Remote Monitoring: Wearable devices and telehealth consultations enable closer monitoring of chronic conditions.
- Efficiency and Cost Savings: Digital solutions can streamline administrative tasks and potentially reduce healthcare costs.
- Targeted Communication: Develop clear, multi-lingual information about digital services and provide training sessions for patients and staff.
- Accessibility Features: Ensure apps and websites are accessible to people with disabilities, including screen reader compatibility and keyboard navigation.
- Telephone and Paper-Based Alternatives: Maintain traditional options for appointments, information access, and prescriptions alongside digital solutions.
- Digital Champions: Train staff members to support patients with using digital tools.
- Loaner Devices: Offer loaner devices with pre-loaded healthcare apps and internet access to patients without personal devices.
- Identify Vulnerable Groups: Analyze patient demographics to identify those at higher risk of digital exclusion, such as the elderly, low-income communities, and non-English speakers.
- Community Partnerships: Collaborate with libraries, community centers, and charities to offer digital skills training and public access computers.
- Government Initiatives: Advocate for policies that ensure affordable internet access and subsidized devices for low-income populations.
- Online Banking Industry: Banks invest heavily in user-friendly interfaces, telephone support, and in-person assistance for customers who struggle with digital tools.
- Public Sector: Government websites often offer multiple language options, simplified interfaces, and accessible document formats.
- Estonia: Provides universal digital ID cards and readily available high-speed internet access for all citizens.
- Singapore: Implements a "Silver Infocomm Initiative" with training programs and subsidized devices for older adults.