Summary
Latest plans have been released regarding how to optimise the potential gains – in terms of improved patient experience, greater efficiency and better effectiveness of healthcare delivery – from digital health services, telecare, telehealth, mobile healthcare and similar technologies.
Reference
Health and social care leaders set out plans to transform people’s health and improve services using technology. London: NHS England, November 13th 2014.
This relates to the National Information Board’s framework for improving health outcomes using digital technology and innovation by 2020. It involves allowing everybody online access to their GP records, viewable via approved apps and digital platforms, by 2015. There will be a “kitemark” scheme for approved health-related smartphone apps.
Reference
Personalised Health and Care 2020. Using Data and Technology to Transform Outcomes for Patients and Citizens: A Framework for Action. London: National Information Board, November 2014.
“[The Department of Health], NHS England and the HSCIC, in partnership with the voluntary and independent sectors, will sponsor initiatives to develop and provide technology and data services, to support new ways of delivering care services. These will focus on people with learning disabilities, young offenders and dementia carers”. (p.25).
Coverage in the news:
Reference
Pym, H. (2014). NHS plans ‘kitemark’ for health apps. London: BBC Health News, November 13th 2014.
Risks of ID Theft or Fraud?
Some NHS-accredited smartphone health apps may be prone to “leaking data”, potentially leaving users prone to ID theft and fraud:
Reference
NHS-approved apps found ‘leaking’ ID data. London: BBC Health News, September 25th 2015.
Other commentaries and press-release information:
Reference
Jeremy Hunt: message to NHS staff on using technology and sharing information. London: Department of Health, November 14th 2014.
“From next April, individuals will be able to book GP appointments online and order repeat prescriptions without having to go to their local surgery. By 2018 a paperless NHS will mean you will no longer have to ask a patient their story – with a patient’s consent, their electronic care record will be available securely across most of the health system. By 2020 the care record will be available across the whole health and care system”.
See also:
Reference
Major new report on digital technology. London: Department of Health / Rt. Hon. Jeremy Hunt MP / National Information Board, November 13th 2014.
