New white paper demands digital revolution in adult social care to save the NHS

A new white paper on digital transformation in adult social care has been launched. The document was unveiled at the first CareTech conference, hosted by techUK. It highlights the need for coordinated action to scale innovative solutions in the sector. The paper, titled Why digital adult social care transformation is central to the future of the NHS, was produced by techUK’s Social Care Working Group. It argues that the success of the NHS 10-Year Plan depends on progress in adult social care. The report also states that current efforts lack coordination around key technologies.

Mature technologies such as predictive monitoring, interoperable records, AI-enabled decision support, and digital telecare are identified as essential. The paper draws on real deployment evidence, case studies from various organisations, and insights from companies like Civica and Tunstall. Sir David Pearson CBE, chair of TEC Quality, contributed a foreword on the benefits of digital solutions in social care, health, and housing.

To drive change, the white paper sets out principles for digital transformation. It also recommends redirecting and pooling existing funds to invest in prevention within the system. The white paper calls for stakeholders to work together to implement and scale these solutions. Its launch marks a push for greater collaboration and investment in digital adult social care. The principles and recommendations aim to guide future efforts in the sector.