Digital transformation and the productivity and efficiency challenge

The 10-year health plan clearly sets out that digital transformation, and greater use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), will be central to boosting productivity and improving patient journeys, with a greater role for the NHS app, a single patient record and expanding roles for genomics, wearables and robotics.

It is clear that these are the right aspirations. Digital tools and ways of working can reclaim valuable time for clinicians, reduce administrative burden, and allow for more time on direct patient care.  

But we also know that investment in new ways of working is required upfront, both in capital and revenue spend, in engaging patients in new approaches and training staff.  

So, what is the secret to driving productivity and efficiency gains in the NHS through digital transformation?

This report focuses specifically on the potential of digital transformation and explores:

• The potential sources of productivity gains with case studies from across the sector
• The barriers to realising productivity gains trusts have experienced to date and how to remove them
• And, practical advice for NHS boards and senior leaders on driving productivity through technology.

This report is published as part of our Digital Boards programme. The programme is designed to build confidence and equip leaders with the skills and shared vision to drive meaningful change. It is available free of charge to all NHS trusts, thanks to funding from NHS England through the NHS Digital Academy programmes and it is delivered in partnership with Public Digital.