As October draws to a close, we're excited to reflect on a month filled with…
Digitising Social Care Funding Guide: How many care providers now use a digital system?
Did you know…
Over 60% of UK care providers have now switched from paper to digital record-keeping systems. This change was greatly accelerated by an NHS initiative that provided £25 million in funding. This money was distributed among 42 Integrated Care Systems (ICS) across the UK, aiming to help care providers registered with the CQC move to an NHS-approved digital system.
With just under a year left for care providers to access funding, we wanted to share with you some tips that can help you transition from paper care planning to a digital system like Care Control.
Top tips for accessing funding:
To access funding for an NHS-assured digital care management system you will need to complete the following steps:
Step 1: Data Security and Protection ToolkitÂ
The Data Security and Protection Toolkit is an online self-assessment tool that allows organisations to measure their performance against the National Data Guardian’s 10 data security standards.
All organisations that have access to NHS patient data and systems must use this toolkit to provide assurance that they are practicing good data security and that personal information is handled correctly.
Click the link to start your DSPT – Data Security and Protection Toolkit (dsptoolkit.nhs.uk)
Step 2: NHS Mail
To get NHSmail, care homes need to make an online application at portal.nhs.net/Registration#/careprovider. The form should be completed by one person on behalf of each site.
Step 3: Exploring Your Options on the Digitising Social Care Website
Your next step is to visit the Digitising Social Care Website, where you can find all NHS Assured suppliers of digital social care records (DSCR). We recommend making a shortlist and arranging a demonstration with at least three suppliers to explore your options.
Here, you’ll be able to compare different solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of care providers. We strongly recommend that you carefully review the offerings from various suppliers and make a shortlist of potential candidates. Once your shortlist is ready, arrange a demonstration with at least three of these suppliers.
These demonstrations are crucial as they allow you to see firsthand how each system operates and how it could integrate into your current processes. By actively engaging with multiple suppliers, you can better assess which system aligns with your specific requirements, ensuring a well-informed decision that will benefit your care service in the long run.
Step 4: Defining Your Digital System Needs
What are you looking for in a digital system? If you’re seeking a comprehensive solution, Care Control offers a full suite of tools and applications that manage not just care documentation but also the daily operations of your care business.
When discussing with suppliers, ensure they provide clear information about costs. Be aware that some systems charge on a modular basis, which might restrict access to full functionality unless additional fees are paid.
With Care Control, you’re charged per service user/resident, giving you access to the entire system without extra charges. This includes HR and medication management—everything is included in our price!
Step 5: Contacting Your Local ICS for fundingÂ
Once you’ve chosen the best system for your setting, the next step is to get in touch with your local Integrated Care System (ICS). You can find your local ICS by visiting this link: Find your ICS and Partners – National Care Forum. Your local ICS will provide further forms and guide you through the process of accessing funding. If you opt for Care Control, our dedicated ICS coordinator will assist you every step of the way.
We hope this guide has provided you with a clear roadmap for navigating the digital transformation of your care services and accessing the available funding. Understanding and implementing these steps can significantly enhance the efficiency and security of your operations, ensuring you provide the best care possible. If you’re ready to see how our software can make a difference in your facility, we invite you to book a demonstration with us. Click here to schedule a time that works for you. Embrace the future of care with confidence, and let us help you make the transition as smooth as possible. Your journey towards a more efficient and effective digital care system starts here!