Interoperability, Data Governance and Accountability in Adult Social Care
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Data governance in adult social care is no longer confined to internal systems. As providers operate across integrated pathways, accountability increasingly depends on how information flows between platforms.
This sits directly within digital records and data and NHS digital, data and interoperability, where commissioners expect providers to demonstrate control, transparency and assurance across connected systems.
Why interoperability changes data governance expectations
When systems are interoperable, data governance extends beyond individual organisations. Providers must ensure that information remains accurate, secure and appropriately accessed as it moves between platforms.
This increases the importance of defined ownership, audit trails and escalation routes.
Operational examples of governance in interoperable systems
In practice, interoperable care systems often include shared care records, integrated dashboards or automated data feeds.
For example, changes to care plans may automatically update related records, requiring controls to ensure changes are authorised and reviewed.
Another example includes automated reporting to commissioners, where providers must validate data accuracy before submission.
Commissioner and regulator expectations
Commissioners expect providers to demonstrate how governance frameworks operate across integrated systems.
This includes clarity on who is responsible for data quality, how errors are corrected and how risks are escalated.
Accountability and audit readiness
Interoperability strengthens audit readiness when systems are properly governed.
Providers can evidence consistency between frontline records, management reports and external submissions, reducing challenge during assurance reviews.
Risk management and safeguarding considerations
Data governance failures create safeguarding risks.
Interoperable systems must ensure that critical information, such as safeguarding concerns or restrictions, is accurately shared and clearly attributed.
Embedding governance into system design
Strong providers design governance into interoperable systems from the outset.
This ensures accountability is maintained as services become more connected and complex.
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