Katie Thorn, Digital Engagement Manager at Digital Care Hub, discusses the promise and challenges of generative AI and emerging technologies in social care.
Emerging technologies are transforming social care, particularly through the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI), which creates text and content in response to prompts. Often embedded in existing software like Microsoft’s Copilot, this innovation is proving cost-effective and impactful. It is already improving efficiencies in areas like summarising meetings, writing care assessments, and creating documents.
AI-powered chatbots are also being used for administrative tasks, such as managing enquiries for care homes and providing instant communication in recruitment. Recruitment chatbots can arrange interviews and respond to questions, offering the immediacy younger recruits value. However, AI must be used responsibly.
To address these concerns, we’ve collaborated with the Institute of Ethics in AI at Oxford University, hosting a roundtable with frontline care workers. Discussions highlighted fears about AI disempowering staff and their liability in its use. Following this, the Care Workers Charity published a statement advocating for responsible AI usage, emphasizing that humans must remain central to decision-making in care. AI is a tool to support, not replace, care workers.
Flexibility in AI application is crucial, as individuals have unique needs and varying comfort levels with technology. For example, assistive devices can enhance communication for those with autism seeking independence, while older individuals with dementia may prefer a human-centered approach. To tackle digital exclusion, we signpost to The Good Things Foundation, which provides access to devices and affordable data packages.
Care workers also recognize the benefits of AI, especially as both staff and those being cared for become more tech-savvy. Yet, challenges persist in an economic climate where providers need substantial investment to adopt and sustain new technologies. Programs like the NHS Transformation Directorate Digitising Social Care initiative have made significant strides, with over seven in ten CQC-registered providers now using digital records, compared to four in ten in 2021.
While such successes demonstrate what targeted funding can achieve, maintaining technology requires ongoing investment for upgrades and reliable internet access. As the Labour government prioritizes digitising health and social care, we are cautiously optimistic. However, we remain concerned that additional funding may be diverted to address immediate pressures, such as increases in national insurance and the minimum wage, rather than long-term technology investment.
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For more information visit www.digitalcarehub.co.uk/ai-and-robotics
@ DigitalCareHub
digitalcarehub.co.uk
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