A recent survey conducted by The Health Foundation has identified key technologies that clinicians believe could significantly save time within the NHS.
With healthcare professionals experiencing immense time pressures, the survey aimed to gauge clinical staff’s perspectives on adopting technology to enhance productivity and alleviate time constraints.
The survey results revealed that video conferencing for internal communication, electronic health records (EHRs), and digital messaging tools were the top choices for time-saving technologies, both currently and in the next five years.
While EHRs and communication tools are seen as crucial for integrated patient care, the research highlighted challenges in the effective implementation and utilization of these technologies, particularly around data sharing and interoperability.
Future Potential
Looking ahead, clinicians also identified clinical documentation tools, EHRs, and software for image and test result analysis as technologies with the most promise to save time within the NHS in the coming years.
However, barriers such as lack of IT support, funding constraints, internet connectivity issues, and staff training challenges need to be addressed to unlock the full potential of these technologies.
Recommendations
The Health Foundation report recommends prioritizing technologies for administrative tasks, optimizing existing tools, supporting real-world testing of emerging technologies, addressing implementation barriers, and increasing staff involvement in technology development.
Ultimately, successful technology adoption and productivity gains in the NHS will depend on how well these technologies are implemented and utilized by end-users, emphasizing the importance of involving clinical perspectives and insights in driving transformative change in healthcare.
