S C R U B B I N G U P
Healthcare leaders also believe that improved accuracy of patient data ( 62 %) and interoperability between different platforms and healthcare settings ( 60 %) are critical to deliver better care to more people . This could enable further innovation and transformation in healthcare .
However , data barriers persist within the NHS . Almost all ( 94 %) healthcare leaders say their organisation experiences data integration challenges that impact their care provision .
What ’ s more , three-quarters ( 76 %) of leaders noted a lack of healthcare data for underserved communities in their areas . This could be impacting access to care , making it difficult to develop strategies to overcome disparities in health outcomes .
More effort is still needed to drive widespread data optimisation , as only a quarter of leaders ( 27 %) see the benefit of data-driven insights in detecting medical conditions . If the NHS doesn ’ t overcome these data barriers , patients risk missing out on the latest healthcare innovations .
Optimisation will deliver a sustainable NHS
The link between human health and environmental health is central to sustainable healthcare .
With the NHS accounting for 4 % of the UK ’ s carbon dioxide ( CO 2
) emissions , Philips believes that sustainable investment could provide a realistic solution to drive innovation and efficiency , both in the long and short term .
By refurbing and upgrading existing estates and equipment with a circular economy mindset , healthcare organisations can achieve economic sustainability and find effective solutions to financial and operational challenges .
Many are already implementing cost reductions , improving operational efficiencies and pivoting towards more sustainable practices . Financial strategies include investing in preventive care to reduce long-term healthcare costs ( 35 %) and community health ( 32 %).
Meanwhile environmental tactics include virtual care technologies or remote monitoring to reduce emissions , which 73 % have either invested in already , or are planning to do so in the next three years .
“ We know that technology can improve workforce productivity , protect wellbeing by reducing burnout and give staff more time to focus on what matters most . Yet , at times when budgets are tight and investment isn ’ t increasing , we also know that overhauling existing systems isn ’ t always feasible ,” says Mark Leftwich .
“ By sustainably optimising existing technology , rather than replacing it , we can keep the NHS ’ s innovation journey going while reducing environmental impact and delivering quality care to those who need it .” �
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