NHS Education for Scotland has launched a new digital and data capability self-assessment tool designed to help guide individuals through the Digital and Data Capability Framework.
Announcing the launch of the tool on LinkedIn, NHS Education for Scotland’s digital workforce communication and engagement manager, Debbie Murray, shared how it allows users to “measure their own digital skills, knowledge, and behaviours”, adding that “there are 22 questions, and it takes around 20-30 minutes to complete”.
Users are required to read a series of capability statements and choose an option from three differing levels which best describes their current skills, knowledge and behaviours. The tool provides users with an overview of their answers by email, along with links to learning resources “based on the capability levels chosen”. According to the website, these resources have been selected specifically to help users “develop their confidence” and “progress towards higher levels of capability where appropriate”.
Capability statements covered by the tool include communicating effectively using digital tools; understanding the risks of communicating online and following appropriate guidelines; understanding “the purpose and function of different digital communication methods”; working effectively with others using digital tools; being able to collect, store, and share information and data safely; being able to use and find information and data; embracing digital change; and using digital tools to improve processes and solve problems. Find out more here.
Digital skills in Scotland’s health sector
Back in August, HTN explored the new Digital and Data Capability Framework launched in Scotland with the aim of supporting digital skills and competencies across the entire health and social care workforce. Six key areas of focus were identified: using technology; innovation and service improvement; identity, safety and wellbeing; communication; handling information and data; and learning and development. Capability statements for each area refer to relevant skills and behaviours, set out in levels to cover increasing levels of digital capability, from level one (essential skills) to level two (developing confidence to independently carry out tasks and identify digital improvement opportunities) to level three (acting on improvement opportunities and supporting others).
In HTN’s deep dive into digital health and data in Scotland, Jonathan Cameron, deputy director for digital health and care at the Scottish Government, also spoke of the importance not only of digital skills, but also of confidence in using them, stating: “That applies to all levels – we’ve done a lot of work at board level around engagement and understanding, as well as working with the frontline who use these tools in their day-to-day roles.”
The publication of the Scottish Government’s annual update on progress toward the NHS Recovery Plan also shared progress around the development of digital skills and digital career paths, with four Learner Pathways published in September 2024.
Why not join HTN for an upcoming panel discussion on successful NHS workforce transformation, which will focus on some of the key determinants of successful NHS workforce transformation, considering how best to drive buy-in and support the workforce with digital transformation. In particular, we’ll discuss challenges and barriers around workforce transformation, how these can be tackled, the opportunities technology provides for change, and how digital can support the workforce, the wider NHS, and models of care in the future.
