A new report from the Good Governance Institute (GGI) and Legrand Assisted Living and Healthcare advocates ‘immediate action to embrace digital solutions’, building on a programme of research and engagement with senior leaders from the health, care, and housing sectors.
Legrand Assisted Living said: “There is growing recognition that the public sector improvements – including in healthcare – we require cannot be delivered simply by providing services in the same way, or even by becoming more efficient. New systems approaches are needed to achieve improved health and wellbeing outcomes across the UK.”
Unleashing the Digital Premium calls for Board members ‘to adapt the digital strategic direction of their organisations, working with diverse partners from across sectors to form new alliances’. The report’s title refers to digital technology’s potential to deliver these improved outcomes ‘through more cost-effective, efficient, and reliable services, and by supporting greater independence for individuals and their families’.
The ‘Digital Premium’ is described as ‘a fundamental enabler of national policy across the NHS and local government’ – including in greater prevention of ill health, more flexible services delivery, and enhanced support to help people live independently for longer. ‘Barriers and opportunities’ to make it a reality cited include:
- A sufficient focus on improving outcomes for communities;
- Data collection, and data sharing with partners;
- Access to relevant expertise;
- ‘Diverse stakeholder engagement’ in developing and delivering digital strategy.
The Unleashing the Digital Premium report was launched at the House of Lords on 25 February. GGI and Legrand Assisted Living and Healthcare are seeking further views in response, and will be hosting future events to continue discussion. To get involved, email info@good-governance.org.uk, or hello@legrand.co.uk, and engage with #DigitalPremium on social media to share views and experience.