Eluned Morgan MS, Minister for Health and Social Services
This statement provides an update to Members about the publication of a refreshed Digital and Data Strategy for Health and Social Care, which is available at: Digital and data strategy for health and social care in Wales
The importance of digital and data in supporting our health and social care services cannot be understated – this refreshed strategy builds on the successful delivery of Informed Health and Care (2015), which was a key enabler of A Healthier Wales (2018).
There have been many large-scale investments in digital and data, including electronic prescribing and the Digital Services for the Public and Patients Programme, which includes the development of the NHS Wales App.
The refreshed strategy provides digital and data transformation direction to help people in Wales lead happier, healthier and longer lives through user-centred digital services built on better digital skills, partnerships, data and platforms.
Alongside the establishment of a chief digital officer (CDO) for health and social care to work alongside the existing CDOs for local government and Welsh Government, the refreshed strategy acts as a whole system narrative. It sets out the expectation to leverage digital and data to advance the quality of our health and social care services. It intends to improve the experience of health and social care users by designing our digital and data services with patients, social care users, providers and clinicians.
It explicitly recognises that digital and data-enabled health and social care services are as much about people, as they are about technology. It intends to empower people to manage their own health and prevent disease through inclusive and user-centred digital services, being enabled by strengthening our infrastructure and connectivity, our use of data and through embracing innovative approaches presented by new technologies.
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be happy to do so.