Driving digital transformation in health and social care: A modernised system

As the UK’s health and social care systems continue to face growing pressure, techUK has published a set of strategic recommendations aimed at accelerating digital transformation across the sector

These recommendations, which also show the collaboration between techUK members and key stakeholders, outline the steps necessary to modernise services, improve patient outcomes, and support the wider health and care workforce.

These recommendations will be developed over the next five years to confront the current and future challenges within the health and social care systems.

As the UK strives for a “digital NHS” as a key element of its health and care reform agenda, there is a new opportunity to use technology, data, and innovation for long-lasting improvements. TechUK, representing the UK’s health and care technology industry, is encouraging action across several key areas to drive forward digital adoption and system-wide change.

Strategic change through industry collaboration

One of the main recommendations is promoting stronger engagement between industry players and health and care organisations.

By collaborating across the system, stakeholders can ensure that digital solutions are better aligned with the needs of the workforce and the people they serve. This collaborative approach can also help overcome barriers to innovation and drive system-wide improvements.

Investing in digital transformation

TechUK calls for sustained investment in the digital infrastructure of health and social care. As services continue to face rising demand, digital solutions mustn’t be just adopted, but integrated into everyday practices. This includes investing in systems that can streamline care delivery, improve efficiency, and provide better access to services for citizens.

Improving procurement and commercial practices

A key barrier to digital transformation has been the complexity of procurement processes. TechUK recommends reforms to simplify and improve commercial practices, ensuring that technology is acquired in a timely, cost-effective way and that the right tools are in place to deliver the desired outcomes.

Enhancing data use and artificial intelligence

TechUK also emphasised the importance of improving data organisation across the system and preparing for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to support clinical decision-making and improve service delivery. A better data landscape, paired with AI-driven insights, has the potential to dramatically enhance patient care and operational efficiency.

Digital transformation in social care

While a lot of the attention has been focused on the NHS, techUK stresses the need to accelerate digital transformation in social care. This includes implementing digital tools to support carers, improve service coordination, and ensure that individuals in social care settings receive the best possible support.

Closing the digital skills gap

TechUK identifies a significant gap in digital skills and leadership across the health and care workforce. Developing the digital skills of frontline staff and equipping leaders with the knowledge to drive change are crucial to ensuring the success of digital transformation initiatives.

By addressing these main areas, techUK believes that the UK can build a more efficient, accessible, and innovative health and care system that meets the needs of both citizens and professionals. The organisation looks forward to working with its members and partners to turn these recommendations into action during the current parliamentary term.

Over the next five years, these recommendations set by techUK for health and social care hope to support the government’s ambitions for strategic change and digital transformation across these industries. TechUK will continue to work closely with central and local Governments, the NHS, social care representatives and key partners across health and care to improve health and social care for all citizens.