www.wmca.digital
Digital Care Support
Care is becoming more digital and it can be confusing when you are a provider what each system does and how it can benefit you.
We've pulled together information on some of the more popular digital solutions, what they mean and if there's any support to help you adopt them
The more digital your business becomes, the more important it is to ensure your data protection processes and procedures are robust. You can do this by completing the Data Security Protection Toolkit (DSPT) annually. Many of the systems below require you to complete the DSPT.
We can help you with this.
Digital and Cyber Security
Data security is crucial for social care providers due to the nature of the information they handle, which often includes personal health data, financial details, and sensitive client backgrounds. Breaches of this data can not only lead to financial loss but can severely undermine the trust placed in social care services. Thus, implementing robust data security measures protects clients and preserves the organization's reputation and compliance with regulatory standards.
WMCA has access to various resources (most of them Free) to help you ensure your security procedures are robust
DSPT (Data Security Protection Toolkit)
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The DSPT is an online asessment of your data protection policies and procedures. Succesful completion of the DSPT is a requirement for most NHS digital services annd is often a requirement in local authority contracts. It is now referenced in CQCs Single assessment framework
You need to republish your DSPT every year. We have extensive resources to assist you
Digital Care Records
(Digitisation of Social Care - DISC)
A Digital Social Care Record (DSCR) can save your staff valuable time wasted on routine administrative tasks as it makes information readily available at the point of care. Having a DSCR in place can also support improvements in the safety and quality of care which is centred around the individual.
NHS.net (NHS Mail)
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NHS Mail is a secure email system which is available free of charge to social care providers. With NHS Mail you can transfer information securely to all parts of the health service and local government.
For details and help and advice on common NHS issues, click below.
Shared Care Record
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Shared Care Records allow Social Care Providers and the Health Service to see each others records. As a care provider, being able to see your residents GP records for example will transform how you provide care
Other Technologies
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There are lots of other technologies that can contribute to the care of your residents and service users, most of which can be easily obtained commercially such as Smart speaker and wearables
Digital Switchover (telephones)
By 2027 the UK's existing phone system will switch over from the current analogue system to internet based systems. This may have implications for your existing phone lines or for services users on telecare systems
Proxy Access
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Proxy Access allows you to order medication online securely on behalf of care home residents and service users. To use proxy access you will need a NHS Mail account and completed the DSPT
Remote Monitoring
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Remote Monitoring is digital infrastructure that is cloud based and is used to monitor care home residents’ basic vital signs and symptoms to help with care decisions.
SBFPD (Sensor Based Falls Prevent and Detection
Sensor Based Falls Prevention and Detection is technology designed to monitor occurrances of falls using devices such as sensor pads or acoustic monitoring
There is funding available in some ICB areas for the implementation of these systems
Artifical Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence is becoming more prevelant but there are things care providers should have regard to before they use it within their settings
Advice to Local Authority Commisioning Teams
If you are a local authority and are looking for guidance on implementing Information governance requirments in your contracts, Digital Care Hub has advice you may find useful
Advice to newly registered providers
If you are a newly registered care provider, there are important data protection policies and procedures you should put in place. We have produced some guidance you may find useful
Upcoming Digital Support Events - www.wmca.digital

Digital Care support
The West Midlands Care Association is the Local Support Organisation for Better Security Better Care - a national program of support to help you with your digital compliance by completing the Data Security Protection Toolkit (DSPT). Just look for the DSPT logo in the event listings for helpful webinars and workshops. For further information on the DSPT support we offer click here
If you need additional help or advice then our dedicated digital team are here to assist
They are available during normal office hours (Mon - Fri 9.00am - 5.00pm)
Phone 01384 943000 opt 1
Email enquiries@wmca.digital
