Digital Maturity in NHS-Commissioned Community and Social Care Services
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Digital maturity has moved from a “nice to have” to a core expectation within NHS commissioning. Providers delivering NHS-funded community and social care services are now expected to demonstrate not just the use of digital systems, but the ability to use them effectively, safely and strategically.
Commissioners increasingly view digital maturity as an enabler of quality, safety, system flow and financial sustainability.
This links closely to digital care planning and quality monitoring systems.
What digital maturity actually means
Digital maturity goes beyond having software in place. It reflects how well digital tools are:
- Embedded into day-to-day practice
- Used consistently by staff
- Supporting decision-making and oversight
Commissioners are interested in outcomes, not platforms.
Core components commissioners look for
In practice, digital maturity includes:
- Reliable digital care records
- Accessible, real-time information
- Secure data handling
Systems must support frontline delivery, not distract from it.
Staff confidence and digital capability
A common weakness identified by commissioners is variable staff confidence. Digitally mature providers:
- Train staff beyond basic system navigation
- Build digital expectations into supervision
- Address resistance through support, not enforcement
This ensures consistent use across teams.
Using digital systems to improve quality
Commissioners expect digital systems to support:
- Risk identification
- Care plan reviews
- Incident monitoring
Providers should be able to demonstrate how digital tools actively improve care quality.
Digital oversight and governance
Senior leaders should have visibility of:
- Data quality issues
- System usage rates
- Digital risks
This forms part of overall governance assurance.
Common digital maturity gaps
Commissioners frequently identify:
- Systems not used consistently
- Paper workarounds still in place
- Limited use of reporting functions
These issues undermine digital confidence.
What good looks like to commissioners
Digitally mature providers can:
- Explain how systems support outcomes
- Evidence consistent use across services
- Demonstrate learning from data
This builds commissioner trust and readiness for integration.
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