A new survey highlights a serious risk to the care sector, as providers feel forced to redirect expenditure away from digital developments in order to pay for increased workforce costs.
Three quarters (75%) of adult social care providers say they will “reduce or stop digital transformation projects” as a result of future financial pressures. The findings, published by national trade body the Care Provider Alliance, indicate that crucial investment plans – including tech developments – will be adversely affected when National Insurance Contributions for employers and living wage increases are introduced.
Speaking about the findings, Michelle Corrigan, Programme Director at Digital Care Hub, said: “We understand the pressure that care providers, commissioners and indeed policy makers are under. If, however, this level of disinvestment is replicated across the sector, thousands of people using care will lose out on the benefits of digital tech and the improved data sharing and decision-making that it brings. Investing in digital systems saves resources in the longer term - and improves care. Digital Care Hub will continue to advocate for digitisation and monitor developments.
“This level of disinvestment risks wiping out the progress made in recent years by, for example, support from the Digitisting Social Care Fund which has helped many care providers to set up digital record systems for the first time.
“It is virtually impossible for care providers to operate in the modern world without digital record systems that integrate well with hospitals, social services, GPs, pharmacists and other care and health partners. It’s an essential business expense which must be built into funding calculations.
“Safe digital transformation is an essential element of the government’s plans for improving health and social care. We are deeply concerned that the Autumn Budget plans will unintentionally make it impossible for care providers to continue their digital journey.”
Digital Care Hub wants to hear from care providers about their plans for digital transformation and potential changes and impact. You can access the survey here.
