Data
The data-driven approach: transforming social care
Iain Corrigan, commercial director of CoolCare, explains the value of data to care home managers looking to improve both their operational efficiency and quality of care
In the ever-evolving landscape of social care, the role of data has become increasingly crucial. While digital transformation is not a new subject in the care sector, it is still a journey many are on – with the potential to reap even more benefits from the digital systems they have deployed. One of the biggest advantages to digital systems and processes is the data they provide – it is live, accurate and readily available. For care home managers, leveraging good data can lead to significant improvements in operational efficiency, quality of care, and overall business performance.
Digital systems for care providers There are three main digital systems which are often the most familiar and valuable to care providers – care planning, Electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR), and care home administration. Each of these systems offers unique features and benefits that cater to the diverse needs of care home management.
Digital care planning systems – such as Nourish and PCS – are designed to streamline care planning, recording, and reporting. They aim to support care homes in delivering high-quality, person-centred care through intuitive and user-friendly platforms.
Care home management software like CoolCare is designed to streamline administrative tasks and improve the overall efficiency of care home operations. It focuses on automating processes and providing managers with the tools they need to run their facilities effectively. Finally, eMAR is a digital system used to
October 2024
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document the administration of medication to residents in care homes. It enhances accuracy and efficiency by providing real- time tracking, alerts for missed doses, and integration with electronic health records, ensuring compliance with prescribed medication regimens. Some care planning systems include eMAR as part of their digital processes and record keeping.
Improving quality of care At the heart of any care home is the commitment to providing the very best standards of care to residents. Good data enables care home managers to develop personalised care plans that cater to the unique needs and preferences of each resident. By collating comprehensive health records, dietary requirements, and activity preferences, managers can tailor services to enhance the wellbeing of residents. For example, tracking vital health
Leveraging good data can lead to improvements in operational efficiency, quality of care, and business performance
metrics such as blood pressure, glucose levels, and weight can help in early identification of potential health issues. This proactive approach allows for timely interventions, which can prevent minor problems from escalating into serious health concerns. Further, regular data collection and analysis can reveal patterns and trends, aiding in the adjustment of care plans to better suit the needs of residents as they change over time.
Good data also helps in ensuring that the care provided is consistent and reliable. By maintaining accurate records of medications, treatments, and therapies, care home staff can ensure that residents receive the correct interventions at the right times. This reduces the risk of errors and enhances the overall quality of care.
Enhancing operational efficiency Efficient management of resources is vital for the smooth operation of a care home. Good data collection provides insights into staff performance, resident needs, and facility usage, enabling managers to optimise resource allocation. By understanding peak times for certain activities or identifying periods of high demand for staff, managers can ensure that resources are deployed effectively.
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