Digital inclusion in health and social care

In the world of health and social care, digital presents many benefits. It can also create challenges for anyone who is digitally excluded.

The Digital Health and Care Strategy (2021) highlights the need to address digital exclusion to ensure people have the opportunity to access technology, and develop the skills they need. It also states the importance of people being involved at every stage of the innovation, design and delivery process.

Illustration credit: Tessa Mackenzie

Digital choice is emphasised as key to a person-centred approach to digital health and care. Digital choice relates closely to all of the pillars of digital inclusion. For example, ensuring people have awareness of what options are available to access services digitally and to make an informed decision on whether or not to engage in this way will be impacted by their individual motivation and means of access to digital. This decision will be further influenced by the workforce and organisations ensuring that they offer digital choice and can signpost to support to help people access digital services if required (e.g., if they need a device, skills support, or connectivity).

While digital may not be the preferred option for some people, it does have the potential to make a big difference for others. It allows us to:

• access self-management support at our fingertips,

• reduce social isolation,

• engage more easily when living in a remote and rural area,

• reduce anxiety for people who feel uncomfortable attending appointments in-person,

• save money for people who might otherwise struggle to afford travel costs,

• save time for people who are balancing work or caring commitments.

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This short video from the Coalition of Care and Support Providers in Scotland (CCPS) highlights the role of digital in health and social care.