23 digital advocates working in the NHS are about to embark on an exciting new scheme to transform care and deliver better outcomes for their patients. A speech and language therapist, thoracic surgeon, commissioner, pharmacist and transformation lead are just a handful of the leaders selected for the inaugural 2018 NHS Digital Pioneer Fellowship.
Professionals from a range of disciplines from 18 organisations across London’s foundation trusts, CCGs and arms-length bodies will take part in this innovative 12-month programme.
The aim is to develop their knowledge and capability in influencing, problem solving, change management and business case development, while delivering digital transformation for their organisations.
According to the Office for National Statistics, 89% of adults in the UK regularly use the internet, yet, only 2% of people have any digital interaction with the NHS. The fellowship will mobilise a growing cohort of NHS staff who will be better able to meet the digital challenge in healthcare delivery, to deliver the impact that digital transformation can enable. It will also support individuals through a peer and expert network to bring innovation into practice and develop the skills required to lead innovation.
From May 2018, the Fellows will begin to take part in action learning days to share and overcome challenges, learn from experts and collaborate to co-design local solutions.
Yinka Makinde, Programme Director, DigitalHealth.London said: With increasing strain on NHS services and growing consumer demand for digital-based health services, the NHS Digital Pioneer Fellowship is the only programme of its kind solely focused on the digital health space. The programme aims to equip, inspire and connect participants with like-minded individuals to support the rapid uptake of innovations in frontline services.
Dr Vikram Palit, Paediatrician, Clinical Innovation and Improvement Fellow, Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust said: “The NHS Digital Pioneer Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for clinicians interested in health entrepreneurship and digital health solutions to work together, collaborate and develop their skills to affect sustainable change in the way we deliver healthcare.
Through this programme, I hope to acquire the necessary skills and expertise to be able to effectively lead large-scale digital transformation projects in my day-to-day clinical practice. For instance, with the imminent rollout of CWFT’s new Cerner electronic patient record system, there are several opportunities to lead its implementation across the two hospital sites and facilitate ongoing clinician engagement. Through the dedicated teaching sessions and expert feedback delivered through this programme, I believe I will be able to take the next steps towards leading these type of transformative changes within a healthcare setting.”
