A recent report, “From Ambition to Action,” published by the TEC Services Association (TSA) in collaboration with PA Consulting, has illuminated the challenges faced by UK councils in embracing technology-enabled care (TEC).
Based on a survey of adult social care leaders from 40 councils, with 42 respondents participating, the findings revealed that approximately 50% of the councils perceive a lack of understanding of TEC across the health and social care workforce.
Despite widespread acknowledgment of the importance of TEC in addressing the increasing demand and complexity in the health and social care sector, the report identified four key barriers to its uptake. These include knowledge and understanding gaps, limited implementation plans, concerns around integration, and the potential impact of the turn-off of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) on TEC usage.
The survey also highlighted that although TEC services are considered vital for social care provision, there is still underutilization, with two-thirds of councils not currently using TEC at all. This indicates a significant untapped opportunity for leveraging TEC to enhance social care delivery.
Alyson Scurfield, CEO of TSA, emphasized the pivotal role of TEC services in addressing the challenges posed by rising demand and resource constraints in the public sector. Scurfield underscored the urgent need for a concerted effort to overcome the barriers and maximize the potential of TEC in meeting health and care needs.
It is evident from the report that while the recognition of TEC’s significance is widespread, translating this into concrete action poses a significant challenge for councils. Building a solid case for investment and addressing the barriers to implementation are critical steps in harnessing the full benefits of TEC.
The findings of the report serve as a call to action for stakeholders in the health and social care sector to work towards a better understanding of TEC, and to formulate comprehensive strategies for its integration and maximization. The successful adoption of TEC has the potential to revolutionize social care delivery, enhance independence for individuals, and alleviate the strain on resources in the face of increasing demand.
In conclusion, the “From Ambition to Action” report underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to remove the barriers to TEC uptake and maximize its potential in meeting the evolving health and care needs of the population. It is imperative for councils to prioritize the understanding and implementation of TEC to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of social care services.