Driving improvement through technology

Technology in health and care services is growing in importance. Digitally-enabled care can offer significant benefits to people who use services and those who run and deliver them.

These case studies illustrate some of the developments in use and testing.

We have seen or been told about these examples of innovation in the course of our work. We share them to raise awareness and to encourage health and care services to improve.

Some use technology to do things differently and more efficiently. For example sharing care records. Others use technological innovation so people can self-monitor and take more control over their own care. Examples are apps for smart phones and tablets.

These case studies show what is possible. People can consider whether similar approaches could benefit other services.

We will use them to help consider what evidence we need to see to:

• be sure services are safe, effective, caring, responsive and well led
• improve outcomes for people

One of our strategic priorities is to encourage innovation, as we know it can drive improvements in the quality of care. We are determined that regulation does not stand in the way of digital developments. Yet using technology and innovation must never come at the expense of high-quality, person-centered care.