Impacts of digital technologies on health and social care services

This research built on the NHS England Test Beds programme by evaluating digital technologies (such as Liva and HealthUnlocked) to support patients with long-term conditions. These can support people with long-term conditions such as diabetes. 

We analysed existing data, such as linked primary, secondary health care and social care data, together with council administrative data, to evaluate the impact of these technologies on the demand and use of health and social care services. Our research included a qualitative exploration of patient and provider experiences via interviews.

A published systematic review from this project evaluated existing economic evidence in the area of DHIs for type 2 diabetes. Within the thesis, the synthesis of policy evaluation, qualitative interviews and analysis of linked data showed that linked data can be useful for understanding service use impacts, and that there may be benefits of DHIs for patients and providers other than cost reduction. During the project, plans for analysis and results were discussed with the ARC PPIE group and local patients and stakeholders at the local Community Board.

UCL

Nuffield Trust

Care City

East London Health and Care Partnership