Anyone intent on finding reasons to keep their analogue-only solutions in place despite expert advice are potentially putting their customers at unnecessary risk.

That’s the verdict of Openreach in evidence to a new report published by TSA on behalf of the Technology Enabled Care (TEC) sector.  It followed a top-level meeting between industry leaders and the Department of Health and Social Care.

Sector delivers warning

The Industry Call to Action Report presents information from across the TEC sector on the status of the digital telephone switchover and actions that needed to be taken to mitigate risk of harm to alarm users.

For TEC commissioners, service providers, suppliers and installers, the report offers essential guidance in understanding the risks of analogue telecare devices working on a digital network.

The main risks, the report suggests, from ‘an analogue telecare device working on a digital network are alarm call failure as well as the impact of mains power failure as battery backup is not provided as standard to digital networks.’

Openreach urge long-term thinking

In its contribution to the report by Openreach, written in conjunction with communication providers, the company suggests that:

“…anyone that is intent on finding reasons to keep their analogue-only solutions in place, contrary to expert advice, rather than accepting and embracing change, will clearly be doing so for short-term financial reasons, and will be doing so despite offering an inferior service to their competitors and potentially putting their customers at unnecessary risk.”

Everon applauds ‘essential’ report

Peter Kerly, Managing Director, Everon UK, said: “This report is an essential read for health care and social care providers in understanding the risk of relying on legacy analogue devices for telecare users.

“At Everon UK, we are focused on delivering digital, data led tech solutions that will improve proactive care within the home and give greater peace of mind.”

Read the report here.

Data security and privacy in TEC is not only crucial, it carries legal implications.

In an era where data holds so much value, its protection and safeguarding requires the utmost attention.

As we integrate digital solutions further into the care sector, the amount of personal and health-related data being generated is monumental. This surge not only necessitates stringent data security measures but also reiterates the essence of privacy.

Why is data security crucial in TEC?

The digital transition in the care sector means a plethora of sensitive data - from medical history to real-time health metrics – they are regularly being collected, processed, and stored. Any breach or misuse of this information can lead to severe repercussions, both for the individual concerned and the care provider. Such violations not only undermine the trust placed in these institutions but can also attract legal implications.

Privacy: A fundamental right, not a luxury

While data security focuses on protecting data from breaches and cyber-attacks, privacy is about respecting and safeguarding the rights of individuals. In the TEC sector, this means ensuring that data collected serves its primary purpose without being misused or exploited. It also involves being transparent about what data is being collected, how it's being used, and granting individuals the autonomy over their information.

Navigating the regulatory landscape

Compliance with privacy regulations is not just a matter of ethical responsibility but a legal mandate.

The EU have put regulations such as the GDPR in place, which sets the bar for data protection. It's crucial for care providers to familiarise themselves with these regulations and ensure their digital solutions align with them.

Everon: Setting the standard

As a European leader in digital grouped living solutions, Everon understands the importance of data. Since 2007, we have provided secure and compliant solutions across Finland, Sweden and most recently, the UK. Everon's platform is designed with both security and privacy at the forefront. Our industry certification, ISO 27001 and our Cyber Essentials accreditation, alongside wireless configurations that adapt to individual needs across multiple care settings providing encrypted data storage and transmission, our commitment to upholding the highest data standards is unwavering.

In conclusion, as the horizon of TEC expands, the responsibility of care providers intensifies. Data security and privacy aren't just technical challenges but moral obligations. By understanding the importance of both, and by partnering with industry leaders, care providers can ensure they are not only providing top-tier care but also protecting the fundamental rights of those they serve.

Everon's mission is to deliver innovative digital living solutions which support vulnerable individuals to live happy, productive, and independent lives. Book a free demo to understand how our solutions prioritise data security and uphold privacy standards.

As we progress into the 21st century, the fusion of technology and care services is unmistakably transforming the conventional models across housing and social care. Gone are the days when a carer's most advanced tool was a notepad and pen.

Today, digitalisation presents endless opportunities for the sector, ensuring efficient service delivery and enhanced quality of life for those we serve. The industry is undergoing a metamorphosis, and at its heart is a shift towards digital technologies that prioritise the needs of all vulnerable individuals.

But what are the concrete effects of this integration? Let's investigate the influence of digital technologies on service provision in the housing and social care sector.

Personalisation is key

Digitalisation enables care providers to develop personalised care plans with precision. Traditional methods often followed a 'one-size-fits-all' approach. In contrast, today's digital solutions, like the solution Everon offers, are tailored to suit individual needs and circumstances. Whether it is a care home, assisted living scheme, or home care, digital solutions can be easily tailored to suit multiple requirements.

The result? A system that celebrates independence and removal of barriers.

Efficiency and productivity amplified

Incorporating digital solutions equates to increased efficiency, quicker response times, reduced administration tasks, and a streamlined communication process. The hours once spent on paperwork can now be invested directly where it is needed most, ensuring more person-centred interactions and holistic support. With the complex network of sensors and wireless connectivity, real-time monitoring is effortlessly achieved. For care providers, this translates to proactive rather than reactive support.

Safety and independence in harmony

One might think that with increased digitalisation, the human touch would diminish. On the contrary - the blend of technology and care amplifies the personal connection. How? By ensuring safety through technology, carers can focus on fostering emotional connections and promoting independence where it is needed the most. Imagine a society where vulnerable individuals are equipped with the confidence to live independently, knowing that technology-backed support is just a click away promoting sound peace of mind.

Everon: At the helm of the digital revolution

Since 2007, Everon pioneered digital living solutions in Finland and Sweden. In 2019, we began to deliver our innovative solutions across the UK. From wireless solutions that can be rapidly adjusted to cater to individual needs to comprehensive care solutions across multiple assisted living settings, Everon embodies digital progression in the care sector.

As the housing and social care sector continues to navigate this dynamic landscape, the adoption of digital technologies isn't just beneficial – it is essential. These tools don't replace the human touch; they enhance it, paving the way for a brighter, more connected future for all.

Everon's mission is to deliver innovative digital living solutions which support all vulnerable individuals to live happy, productive, and independent lives.

Book a free demo to see how our solutions can revolutionise your approach to care.

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, SIM-based Technology Enabled-Care (TEC) solutions are seeing greater demand from service providers across health, housing, and social care sectors. However, misconceptions about the technology can deter your organisation from harnessing the full potential of this type of solution. In this article, we will aim to debunk 12 common misconceptions about SIM-based TEC solutions and provide clear answers to help you make an informed decision for your organisation.

#1: SIM-based TEC solutions are unreliable.

Reality: A SIM-based solution offers a high level of reliability, as they are not dependent on analogue, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth connection and have no single point of failure.

#2: SIM-based TEC solutions are not secure.

Reality: SIM-based solutions are very secure. They are cloud based and use encryption to protect your data and adhere to strict industry standards and guidelines.

#3: SIM-based TEC solutions are limited in coverage.

Reality: With multiple network providers using a non-steered roaming sim, this type of solution offers extensive coverage. If one mobile network goes down, or is at capacity, the device can roam to another network provider offering you greater resilience.

#4: SIM-based TEC solutions are difficult to setup.

Reality: Setting up a SIM-based TEC solution is simple. In most cases, all you need to do is insert the SIM card and turn on the device. This is timesaving and less cumbersome than most solutions that require CAT6 in-line wiring and in most cases, completed by the supplier at setup.

#5: SIM-based TEC solutions are expensive.

Reality: While initial setup and SIM costs exist, they are more cost effective than traditional wired solutions as they are often plug and play. The long-term benefits, including, initial cost savings, zero need for on-site infrastructure, simple setup, and efficiency improvements, far outweigh the capital investment.

#6: SIM-based TEC solutions are not interoperable.

Reality: Modern Sim-based solutions are designed to be user-friendly and can be seamlessly integrated into existing systems using open API’s.

#7: SIM-based TEC solutions have poor backup battery life.

Reality: SIM-based solutions do have good battery life. Whilst they rely on being mains powered like other systems, they do have the fallback of an emergency 24hr backup battery if the need arises.

#8: SIM-based TEC solutions are not customisable.

Reality: SIM-based solutions are just that. You can choose the features and services that best meet your needs, they are fully scalable, and sustainable too, so you are future proofed.

#9: SIM-based TEC solutions are Prone to Network Failures

Reality: Sim-based solutions often provide more reliable connectivity; a leading SIM provider has reported 99.9% available time over a 12-month period. When comparing these to Wi-Fi or other alternatives, where downtime can be hours/days, this is testament to how fast the GSM infrastructure is growing. Everon’s solutions offer both SIM and Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity which again gives commissioners flexibility around choice.

#10: SIM-based TEC solutions are difficult to use.

Reality: SIM-based solutions are designed to be user-friendly, so you don't have to be tech-savvy to use them. They are plug and play with push button setup for sensors making the install seamless and hassle free. They are designed with the end user in mind.

Myth 11: Sim-based TEC is Not Future-Proof

Reality: Sim-based solutions are continually evolving to adapt to emerging trends and technologies, ensuring its relevance in the future. SIM-based solutions can receive software updates over-the-air, allowing them to adapt to new technologies and security.

#12: SIM-based TEC solutions are only for the elderly.

Reality: While SIM-based solutions are certainly useful for the senior population, they can be used by other vulnerable individuals who would benefit from the use of technology to help them live happily and independently within a safe environment.

In conclusion, Sim-based TEC solutions offer immense potential for commissioners seeking to improve connectivity, security, speed, and efficiency. Embracing this solution can empower your organisation to thrive in today's technology-driven world.

Everon uses SIM-based technology for our solution to support Health, Housing and Social Care sectors. With over a decade of experience providing digital solutions in Finland, Sweden, and the UK, we are the European market leader in digital grouped living solutions.

Our webinar ‘Ensuring Seamless Connectivity’: Strategies for Successfully Implementing SIM-Based TEC Solutions explores the advantages of SIM-based TEC solutions which can support your analogue to digital transition. We discussed strategies to address potential connectivity issues during implementation and beyond.

Additionally, the webinar included an interactive panel session where attendees posed their questions.

Click here to watch the replay.

Click here to learn about our digital solutions


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