New digital approach
A new approach to using digital technology and innovation to help improve the lives of local people and communities across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough has been agreed by local health and care leaders.
The Cambridgeshire & Peterborough ICS Digital Strategy, which was approved by the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Integrated Care Board earlier this month, sets out the vision for the next three years of how it will use digital technology to deliver better, more personalised and easy to access health and care services and support.
Developed alongside our health and care partners, it focuses on how technology will help empower our local people and communities to have more control and management of their health and wellbeing. Whether that is through improved access to services and support online or by being part of a virtual ward which allow patients to receive the care they need at home rather than having to be in hospital.
It will also ensure our staff are provided with the skills, digital tools and technology to enable them to work more effectively and deliver safer care.
One of the biggest projects to be delivered this year as part of the strategy will be the roll out of the first phases of Shared Care Records that lets all health and care staff have access to their patient’s records helping to improve joined-up care.
Nicci Briggs, NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Chief Finance Officer and Digital Lead for Cambridgeshire & Peterborough ICS, said:
“The last few years have shown us the positive impact technology can have on helping to improve access to health and care services. We want to build on this, to embrace new technology and support our local communities to have the right skills, support and awareness of the technology available and benefits it can provide to them.
“Health and care services need to be fast, responsive, effective, and efficient and we need to consider the best use of innovative technology so we can provide the best possible care and experience for our local people and communities.”
Technology will be used to collect and analyse data, feedback and provide insights that can help to break down barriers and tackle health and care inequalities in areas of most need. It looks at how we will support those who are unable to access online or provide support for those who want to learn, for example many GP Practices now employ a Primary Care digital champion who supports patients to access online services and support.
Nicci added: “We recognise digital will not work for everybody and are committed to providing alternative ways to use services so that no one is excluded. And, for those who would like to use digital but cannot, our aim will be to find ways to help and support them to use and have access in a way that is right for them.”
You can read our digital strategy here.