Commissioning Expectations for Telecare and Remote Monitoring in Social Care
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Telecare and remote monitoring are now standard considerations in commissioning decisions. Providers are expected to demonstrate how technology supports outcomes, assurance and value for money, aligning with working with commissioners and robust governance and leadership arrangements.
Why Commissioners Scrutinise Telecare
Commissioners view telecare as both an opportunity and a risk. While technology can enhance independence, poor implementation can increase safeguarding concerns.
As a result, commissioners increasingly request detailed explanations of how systems operate in practice.
Expectation One: Clear Purpose and Outcomes
Commissioners expect providers to articulate why telecare is used for each individual. This includes linking devices to assessed needs and agreed outcomes.
Generic statements about safety are insufficient.
Operational Example: Outcome-Based Telecare Planning
A supported living provider mapped each sensor to specific outcomes such as reduced night-time checks or improved sleep routines. This was shared during contract monitoring.
The approach was positively received.
Expectation Two: Safeguarding and Escalation
Commissioners expect clarity on how alerts are managed, escalated and reviewed. This includes staffing availability and contingency arrangements.
Expectation Three: Governance and Oversight
Providers must evidence senior oversight of telecare. This often includes performance reporting, incident review and continuous improvement processes.
Operational Example: Contract Monitoring Assurance
During a review meeting, a provider presented incident logs, response times and learning actions related to telecare alerts.
This demonstrated proactive management.
Value for Money Considerations
Commissioners assess whether telecare reduces reliance on higher-cost interventions while maintaining safety and quality.
Key Takeaway for Providers
Commissioners expect telecare to be purposeful, governed and outcomes-led. Clear articulation and evidence are essential to contract confidence.
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