NHS waiting times at record high: how can tech make an impact?

Dr Simon Bourne, CEO and founder of digital therapeutics app my mhealth, explains how better integrating technology into the NHS could help navigate the long waiting times. 

Every month, as NHS waiting time statistics are revealed, we are reminded of how much pressure our NHS is under. Over the past year, the need for the NHS to move towards digitalisation and transformation has become more prevalent. As the UK looks towards a post-lockdown way of living and working, it’s important that the NHS has the digital infrastructure in place to embrace digital-first patient care in order to reduce wait times. Committing to better integrate technology into our healthcare systems could be the solution to navigating the waiting list for treatments and check-ups.

The NHS has made significant progress in its digital collaboration during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the launch of NHSX in April 2019, moves towards digital were gradual and did not necessarily achieve the desired impact. However, with a look to the future, the NHS has confirmed its public commitment to better integrate technology into its practices to benefit healthcare professionals. In doing so, it is ensuring better support for patients with long-term conditions. This is a step that is hugely welcomed by healthcare professionals (HCPs), patients and industry experts, and will work to ensure that everyone in the UK can see a benefit from a health service that is digital-first. 

By embracing digital, the NHS can look to tackle a continued thorn in its side - its long wait times, while providing best-in-class care for its patients. There are many elements that can support with this, while achieving an overarching goal of alleviating pressure on HCPs. Technology that enables virtual consultations can support the allocation of resources, and help with HCP shortages, as they no longer require both patient and HCP to be physically present. Patients are no longer sat waiting in reception rooms or forced with long commutes to a GP surgery or hospital, and HCPs can give their full attention to patients and work remotely without the requirement of bespoke infrastructure.

It has been widely reported that following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, the NHS will see a surge in appointments that were missed due to patients staying at home. As the NHS prepares to meet the requirements of this backlog, technology can be utilised to facilitate routine check-ups, by giving patients the option to check-in with their HCP via virtual consultation and/or empowering them to remotely record their statistics and symptoms which can be monitored by their HCP. 

Automation of traditional health processes has been a priority for the NHS for some time and can certainly be embraced to support with patient waiting times. By moving annual check-ups for patients with chronic diseases for example online, the NHS can address the issue of low attendance numbers for these reviews. In making healthcare more accessible, particularly for those living in remote areas where their HCPs are a long drive away, the NHS will begin to see an improved, more resilient, and stronger service in place. 

By embracing digital as we pivot towards a post-pandemic healthcare service, the NHS will be better placed to meet all patient needs. In committing to enhancing its services through technology, the NHS can better support its healthcare professionals to provide optimum care while prioritising their workload in an efficiently.