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.
As members of the Tec Action Alliance, we are delighted with this comprehensive new report on what people want from technology-enabled care.
The report offers a wealth of information on implementing technology strategically and effectively within care settings. It offers a fresh perspective on how people view and describe TEC, the main functions they recognise, and the values and principles they demand from TEC.
The TEC Action Alliance is a group of industry partners and leading organisations working together to maximise opportunities for care technologies to support in the delivery and experience of personalised, quality care for individuals. This support will extend to families, caregivers and workforces so they can provide optimum care underpinned with digital know-how.
We believe this will be achieved through working alongside the government, NHS and Integrated Care Systems (ICSs), by strengthening the user voice, with genuine co-production and through collaboration and partnership-working with sectors of Health, Housing and Social Care.
Our reach and activity will extend beyond to umbrella bodies, charities and voluntary groups in disability rights, health, social care and housing, looking at how technology can be harnessed to support the delivery of personalised, quality care out into communities. With the support of our commercial and organisational partners, we will affect Change and Action in TEC.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
