UK5G launches resource hub for the health and social care sector

Posted on: 10/11/2021

UK5G's new hub offers practical advice and guidance, as well as inspiration on the adoption of 5G technologies for the health and social care sectors.

Few sectors, if any, have been subject to as much sweeping change – and strain – as health and social care, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. But beyond the challenges presented by the crisis, not least the burgeoning backlog, it also served as an incredible accelerator of digital transformation across the sector.

Despite significant progress, lack of digitisation and connectivity still exists within the sector and is far from the only challenge it faces. The UK’s ageing population and a rise in complex comorbidities mean that more than 70% of the NHS budget is used for long-term condition management. In social care too, demand for services is increasing, there are pressures on budgets and there are significant concerns around recruitment and digital skills.

A new way of working is needed as the UK moves towards an integrated approach to offer more ‘joined up’ care experiences for patients and care receivers, improved patient outcomes and less strain on services. But, while vital, this transition to population health management (known as Integrated Care Systems in England, the Population Health Directorate in Scotland, the National Centre for Population Health &

Wellbeing Research in Wales, and the Public Health Agency in Northern Ireland) is undeniably complex.

Faced with the above, this vital sector that employs over 1.3m people and cares for tens of millions more is under mounting pressure. 5G – and the digital technologies it enables – can support the desire to realise more people-centric care, transition from a reactive to preventative model, and move the delivery of care from clinics to communities. All while unlocking the efficiency, resilience and flexibility required to meet the UK’s ever-growing health and social care needs.

This new online resource from UK5G is designed to help the health and social care sector find the right resources and connections to map a clear path to 5G. In turn, granting access to the digital tools, skills and resources that will empower health and social care professionals to change how and where they deliver care, and ensure the UK population can benefit from more efficient, personalised care.

Webinar series

What’s more, a dedicated online event series will provide the opportunity to hear directly from those who have been there, done that, and learned the lessons that others can benefit from.  Upcoming 5G in health & social care events include:

About UK5G

KTN is a delivery partner for UK5G, the national innovation network dedicated to the promotion of research, collaboration and the industrial application of 5G in the UK. Its mission is to ensure that the UK is at the forefront of global 5G development.

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