Our Dorset Integrated Care System (ICS) has launched its comprehensive Digital Strategy, outlining a clear vision for the future of healthcare in the region. The strategy aims to revolutionise the delivery of health and social care through digital innovation, with a target completion date of 2031.
Key Objectives:
- Seamless Digital Ecosystem: The strategy prioritises the creation of a user-friendly, integrated digital environment that empowers healthcare staff, enhances patient experiences, and leverages advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI).
- Pioneering Digital Status: Dorset aspires to become a nationally recognised digital pioneer within the National Health Service (NHS) by 2031. This involves harmonising people, data, and technology to ensure outstanding patient care.
- Addressing Health Inequalities: Recognising Dorset’s diverse population of over 810,000 residents, the strategy aims to bridge existing health inequalities using digital tools to tackle challenges like rural access and the needs of an aging population.
- Unified Digital Approach: The strategy promotes a cohesive digital approach across all healthcare partners and providers, emphasising interoperability, shared priorities, and sustainable investment in digital infrastructure.
Key initiatives outlined in the strategy include:
- Integrated Digital Systems: Focus on secure and seamless data access for clinicians and patients across various care settings, eliminating paper-based processes wherever possible.
- Collaborative Governance: Establishing a unified governance model for digital initiatives, ensuring strategic decisions are informed by clinical and operational leadership.
- Empowering Citizens: Improving digital engagement and access for patients through tools like the NHS App, prioritising equitable digital inclusion and proactive health management.
- Modern Infrastructure: Building a resilient, secure, and scalable digital infrastructure with improved system reliability and robust cybersecurity frameworks.
Data-Driven Insights: Enhancing data sharing and governance to enable evidence-based decision-making, proactive care, and population health management. - Workforce Development: Cultivating a digitally skilled workforce through training, professional development, and leadership opportunities.
Alignment with National Strategies:
The Dorset Digital Strategy aligns with national and regional policies, including the NHS England’s 10-Year Plan and the Department of Health & Social Care priorities.
The Path Forward:
The strategy was co-created with input from digital, clinical, and operational leaders across Dorset. Key performance indicators (KPIs) will be used to track progress and ensure transparency and accountability.