Digital social care records often have the reputation of only being relevant to large care providers, but that is not always the case.
In my professional experience as a mental health nurse, clinical manager, and independent non-medical prescriber, I have worked with various electronic care record systems. So, when we at UpNorth Care Services decided to implement a digital social care record system, I knew this would be an exciting step forward for us. Based upon my previous experience, I knew that there could be significant potential benefits for the company and for the people we support.
In all of my previous roles, the transition to digital records was manageable, largely due to the availability of face-to-face training.
However, this rollout did have some challenges. The provider supported the implementation via two Microsoft Teams sessions, guiding us through the system’s operations.
Whilst the Teams calls were helpful, the sessions were overwhelming due to the sheer amount of information being presented. When we enquired about face-to-face training, we were quoted £600 per day. Unfortunately, for an organisation of our size and the number of people we support, we could not afford in-person training.
The learning curve has been steep, especially for those using digital systems for the first time, but despite these hurdles, we have successfully migrated our paper records into the electronic system.
While the process has been challenging, the long-term benefits are already becoming evident. With all the records for the people we support and our staff centralised on one platform, navigating and updating information is now significantly more efficient.
Continuity of care has greatly improved, as everyone can access up-to-date records in real time, enhancing our ability to deliver timely and coordinated care.
Additionally, we found that the platform facilitates good governance and enables effective CQC monitoring, ensuring that we maintain high standards of care and compliance.
In the next stage of the rollout, we will be working to get the consent of people we support so that relatives will be able access records. This will mean relatives will be able to see how their loved ones are doing and see the quality of care they are receiving.
It is extremely satisfying to know this will make a significant difference for the people we support and their loved ones.