February 25th 2025
On Provider Unite’s Day of Action, we highlight the importance of long-term investment in digital and data technology and skills. In adult social care, putting money into digital tools and safe data sharing isn’t just a nice idea – it’s a must for better care.
Katie Thorn, Project Lead at Digital Care Hub, emphasises this point:
“Investing in digital technology is not about cutting costs – it’s about improving the quality of care and ensuring the sustainability of our services. Safe data sharing is essential for coordinated care, and commissioners need to consider the long-term benefits of these investments.”
Boosting efficiency
Digital technology can make everyday tasks much simpler. For example, electronic care records mean that patient information is updated in real time, reducing mistakes and cutting down on paperwork. Automated scheduling helps assign care workers more efficiently, which saves on travel costs and reduces wasted time. Plus, telehealth lets care providers check in remotely, meaning fewer in-person visits and lower expenses overall.
Enhancing care quality and outcomes
Having digital tools at hand makes a big difference in care quality. With immediate access to shared essential data across the NHS and social care, staff can act fast when it really counts, especially during emergencies. Digital systems also allow for more personalised care by spotting trends in health data. This not only improves the care experience but can also reduce the number of hospital admissions and other costly treatments.
The importance of safe data sharing
Safe data sharing is key to making sure everyone involved in someone’s care has the right information at the right time. Whether it’s NHS staff or independent care providers, secure data sharing ensures a smooth flow of information. This is all about better coordinated care, while still keeping patient details safe and following regulations like the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR.
The role of commissioners
Commissioners are crucial in pushing digital change forward. They need to see the long-term savings that come with digital investments – even if it means spending a bit more at the start. By including digital solutions in their plans, commissioners can help build a more efficient and sustainable care system for everyone.
Policy implications
Policy choices need to back the benefits of digital transformation in adult social care. A recent survey indicated that 75% of care providers might cut back on digital transformation due to wider financial pressures. This means policymakers need to develop funding models that support digital growth. Our manifesto for digitisation in the adult social care sector lays out the key funding strategies and cost considerations needed to keep digital progress on track.
Government support for digitisation
Government policy is increasingly in favour of digitising public services. The Government’s Blueprint for modern digital government sets out the benefits of a data-driven approach, and it’s important that adult social care providers are included—even if many operate as independent organisations. Bringing them into the broader digitisation of the public sector will help ensure high-quality care for everyone.
In short, investing in digital technology and safe data sharing not only cuts costs but also boosts the quality of care in adult social care. Policy and funding need to reflect these benefits so that providers can keep making these improvements. On this Providers Unite Day of Action, we stand with care providers across the UK, calling for policies that support long-term investment in digital transformation. Together, with the right funding and smart policies, we can build a more efficient and sustainable care system for everyone.
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