In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, digital transformation is not just a trend; it is a necessity. The NHS Digital Transformation Online Conference, hosted by Gale Ems MBE, served as a platform for leading voices in healthcare to discuss the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Cllr Douglas Hamondishe, Kent and Medway NHS & Social Care Partnership Trust - Keynote
Kicking off the day was a keynote speech from Cllr Douglas Hamondishe, a community mental health practitioner. Addressing delegates, Douglas shed light on the importance of integrating digital tools and artificial intelligence into NHS services.
The keynote began with a focus on the substantial funding allocated for modernisation within the NHS, amounting to over £2 billion. This investment aims to enhance diagnostics, streamline operations, and boost innovation. With public support strong—75% of individuals backing the use of anonymised health records—the stage is set for a significant shift in how healthcare is delivered.
However, the transition is not without its challenges. As Douglas pointed out, outdated infrastructure, limited budgets, and workforce capacity are hurdles that must be addressed to achieve the global goal of digital maturity by 2025. The widespread use of electronic records is just one aspect of this transformation.
A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the role of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Douglas advocated for AI's potential to improve access to mental health services and enhance the capabilities of healthcare professionals. He emphasised the need to move beyond simply digitising paper processes, instead focusing on reimagining healthcare delivery.
Cyber Security and Data Privacy
In an era where digital reliance is at an all-time high, the importance of cybersecurity within the NHS cannot be overstated. As the healthcare sector continues to face a barrage of cyber threats, safeguarding sensitive patient data has become a top priority.
For the first panel discussion of the day, a panel of experts came together to discuss the pressing issues surrounding NHS cybersecurity, highlighting the complexities and challenges faced by this vital institution.
The NHS is not a singular entity but a confederation of independent organisations, each with its own operational peculiarities. This diversity makes it increasingly difficult to implement a unified cybersecurity strategy. Tony Proctor, Security and Information Risk Advisor at West Midlands Combined Authority, emphasised the myriad challenges posed by this complexity, including the need to manage thousands of points of entry for sensitive data and the intricacies of sharing information securely across various organisations.
Olu Odeniyi, a non-Executive Director at Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust, pointed out that the NHS must be prepared for the inevitable cyber threats it faces. With past incidents like the WannaCry attack serving as a wake-up call, the urgency for improvement is evident. The panel discussed how budget constraints often prioritise patient care over cybersecurity, yet the consequences of a cyber breach can halt operations and compromise patient safety.
The discussion also explored the role of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in both exacerbating and mitigating cyber threats. Kurtis Toy, Chief Executive of CCoe, warned that as AI evolves, so too do the malicious techniques employed by cybercriminals. The staggering statistic of over 560,000 new malware variants released daily underscores the necessity for advanced protective measures beyond traditional antivirus solutions.
Despite the daunting challenges, the panel remained optimistic about the future of cybersecurity in the NHS. They highlighted the importance of fostering a strong cybersecurity culture, where every individual within the organisation understands their role in protecting sensitive information. Training and awareness are critical components in this endeavour, as human error remains one of the most significant vulnerabilities in cybersecurity.
EPR (Electronic Patient Records)
With the landscape of healthcare changing, electronic patient records (EPRs) have emerged as a cornerstone for improving patient care and streamlining clinical workflows. On the second panel of the day, experts delved into the transformative potential of EPRs within the NHS, shedding light on both their benefits and challenges.
EPRs have revolutionised the way healthcare professionals manage patient information. With the majority of primary care providers now utilising EPR systems, the potential for enhanced data sharing and improved patient outcomes is immense. The panel, featuring leaders from healthcare IT and policy, discusses how EPRs can lead to a more cohesive and patient-centred NHS.
However, the journey towards effective EPR implementation is not without its hurdles. The integration of legacy systems poses significant challenges, particularly in ensuring data accuracy and maintaining patient privacy. Our panellists delve into these issues, emphasising the need for robust governance and user-centred design to mitigate risks and enhance safety.
As we look to the future, the role of EPRs in the NHS cannot be overstated. The panel highlighted the need for ongoing investment in training and evaluation to ensure that these systems meet the needs of both clinicians and patients alike. The potential for EPRs to unlock efficiencies and improve care pathways is significant, making it essential that the sector gets this right.
George Kowalski, MiiCare - Keynote
In the second keynote of the conference George Kowalski, the Vice President of Business Development at MiiCare. George opened up about his personal journey, sharing the profound impact that the loss of his mother has had on his passion for improving the quality of life for older adults.
With an increasing number of elderly individuals wishing to maintain their independence at home, George highlighted the critical role that artificial intelligence can play in enhancing their safety and well-being. He argued that traditional healthcare models need to evolve, advocating for integrated solutions that bridge the gap between social care and health services.
One of the standout features of the MiiCare solution is its ability to provide personalised health coaching through AI. This innovative approach not only empowers older adults to manage their chronic conditions but also addresses pressing issues such as social isolation and mental health challenges. George emphasised that the integration of AI can help identify health risks early, allowing for timely interventions that can prevent hospitalisations.
George also discussed the importance of comprehensive data collection and analysis. By capturing over 70 health indicators, MiiCare can offer valuable insights into an individual’s health and lifestyle. This data-driven approach ensures that caregivers and healthcare providers can make informed decisions that enhance the care experience for elderly patients.
Virtual Wards and Telemedicine
In the next leaders debate, panel members explored the world of virtual wards and telemedicine, innovations that are set to revolutionise healthcare delivery within the NHS. With a staggering 40% of hospital beds currently occupied by patients who could be recovering at home, the need for effective remote care solutions has never been more pressing.
The expert panel, comprising healthcare leaders and practitioners, looked into the critical differences between virtual wards and hospital-at-home models. A virtual ward is not merely a bed in a hospital; it is a sophisticated remote monitoring platform that allows patients to receive care in the comfort of their own homes while maintaining a safety net for escalation if needed. This distinction is crucial for understanding how we can effectively utilise our healthcare resources.
The discussion highlighted the challenges of implementing these systems, particularly in terms of scaling, ensuring patient safety, and addressing the digital divide that affects many communities. The panel emphasised the importance of designing patient-centric care models that consider the unique needs of individuals, especially those who may be digitally excluded.
One of the key takeaways from the panel is the need for public engagement and education regarding virtual wards. Many patients may not be familiar with these concepts until they are offered them, leading to confusion and reluctance. The panel suggested that we need to normalise the conversation around virtual care, making it a common part of our healthcare discourse, much like online banking or shopping.
Workforce Digital Skills
On the journey of digital transformation, the importance of digital skills cannot be overstated. In the next discussion, panellists discussed how these skills are not just beneficial, but essential for the 1.4 million NHS workforce. With a staggering 67% of NHS staff seeking additional training, the urgency to bridge the digital skills gap has never been more critical.
The conversation kicked off with a focus on the existing challenges faced by healthcare professionals. As Linda Vernon, Head of Digital Empowerment at Lancashire and south Cumbria ICB pointed out, the term 'digital skills' encompasses a wide range of competencies, from data literacy to the effective use of collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams. The shift from traditional paper records to digital systems has transformed the way frontline clinicians operate, but it has also highlighted the need for comprehensive training programmes that cater to varying levels of digital proficiency among staff.
Lee Rickles, CIO at Humber Teaching NHS FT, added to this by discussing the diverse range of expertise within the NHS workforce. Not all medical professionals are equally comfortable with digital technology, and this disparity can impact efficiency and patient care. The panel emphasised the necessity of creating an environment that fosters a culture of continuous learning and adaptation. Upskilling is not just about understanding how to navigate software; it's about integrating technology into daily practice in a way that enhances patient outcomes.
Another significant point raised was the need for a shift in mindset regarding digital competence. Angus Wallace, Chair of UK Digital Health and Care, highlighted that it's not just about acquiring skills; it's about having the confidence to use them effectively. This 'digital activation' is crucial for both healthcare workers and patients, as it empowers them to engage fully with the tools available to them.
Chris Mason and Janice Barrett, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust - Keynote
As the healthcare landscape evolves, the need for efficient and effective care delivery models has never been more critical.
In the final keynote of the conference, Chris Mason and Janice Barrett from Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust took a deep dive into the innovative realm of virtual wards and emergency care.
Chris Mason, the Deputy DGM for Urgent Community Response Services, and Janice Barrett, the Clinical Directorate Lead, shared their insights on the integration of community and acute services. They explained the distinction between virtual wards and the hospital-at-home model, highlighting how both approaches work collaboratively to ensure patients receive timely interventions without the need for conventional hospital admissions.
A significant focus of the discussion was on patient pathways. Chris and Janice detailed how the traditional emergency department processes can be streamlined to identify patients who are suitable for virtual ward care right from the triage stage. This proactive approach not only reduces waiting times but also mitigates risks associated with prolonged stays in the hospital, such as hospital-acquired infections and deconditioning.
The keynote also addressed the challenges faced in implementing virtual wards, particularly in terms of staffing and the need for a diverse multidisciplinary team. Chris and Janice emphasised the importance of aligning resources with patient needs and the necessity of having a robust remote monitoring platform to support seamless care delivery.
AI and Innovation
In the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare, artificial intelligence (AI) is proving to be a game changer, particularly within the NHS. This set the scene for the final panel discussion of the conference, which delved into the profound impact of AI technologies on patient care and operational efficiency.
The NHS AI Lab has been pivotal in supporting over 80 AI technologies, significantly reducing diagnostic times by up to 65% and benefiting 1.4 million patients daily. This remarkable progress opens the door to discussions about how AI can enhance patient outcomes, streamline operations, and support diagnostic accuracy. Panellists began by exploring the various roles AI can play, from personalised medicine to predictive analytics, while also addressing the critical challenges surrounding data privacy and ethics.
A key highlight of the episode is the discussion around the automation of administrative tasks. With healthcare professionals often bogged down by paperwork and logistical challenges, AI offers a solution to free up their time for what truly matters—patient care. As Natalie Keightley, Vice President of SSNC Blue Prism, aptly pointed out, AI has the potential to completely rethink and reinvent the way healthcare operates.
However, the path to successful AI integration is not without its hurdles. Deborah Padgett, President of the Institute of Biomedical Science, shed light on the barriers faced in the healthcare sector, such as the lack of knowledge on operationalising AI and the cultural resistance to change. It is clear that, for AI to be effectively harnessed, a robust governance framework must be established to ensure ethical and safe implementation.
As the panel looked towards the future the conversation shifted to the importance of rethinking healthcare delivery. Andy Wilkins, Founder of Future of Health, emphasised the need to move beyond traditional silos and embrace a more integrated approach, leveraging AI to not only improve existing processes but also to reimagine the way healthcare is delivered.
In order to hear all of the insight that was passed on by the expert across the entire day, watch the 2024 NHS Digital Transformation online conference here.
