Improving digital literacy for patient centered care
Within the next 20 years, 90% of NHS positions will require digital skills, highlighting the urgent importance of digital literacy in the health and care sector*.
With tech moving at its current pace, digital transformation can’t wait.
The NHS has plans to focus on digital transformation and reshaping healthcare service delivery over the coming years – and employee development is at the heart of this initiative.
Enhancing digital literacy among NHS staff will be crucial for better health and care delivery and patient outcomes and is essential for the vast majority of NHS professionals in today's landscape.
* according to the 2019 Topol review
What are the benefits of a digitally upskilled NHS workforce?
Enhance patient care
Digital literacy allows healthcare professionals to use technology to deliver the best patient care. With expertise from managing electronic health records (EHR) to conducting virtual consultations, these tools facilitate communication, data analysis and personalised treatment plans.
Optimised workflow efficiency
A digitally literate workforce improves workflow efficiency by adopting digital systems and processes. Using EHR, clinical decision support systems and mobile health applications can streamline tasks, reduce paperwork and provide more time for patient care.
Data-driven and people-centred decision-making
In an era characterised by big data and analytics, digital literacy enables health and care professionals to harness the power of data in informing clinical decision-making. By understanding how to collect, analyse and interpret data, professionals can identify trends, predict patient outcomes and tailor treatment strategies to individual needs.
Promotion of health and care equity
Digital literacy plays a crucial role in promoting health equity by ensuring that all members of the NHS workforce have the skills and resources necessary to leverage digital technologies effectively.
Preparation for future challenges
As health and care evolves in response to technological advancements and shifting patient demographics, digital literacy will become increasingly essential for the NHS workforce.
Thriving workforce with relevant digital skills
Investing in digital training prepares health and care organisations for future challenges and ensures their workforce thrives in an evolving digital landscape.