The NHS Wales COVID-19 Innovation and Transformation Study Report (June 2021)

Summary

This independent study report is designed to be accessible, informative and a tool for learning and change. In its preparation, the project team has aimed to:

• develop a greater understanding of why staff across the system implemented new practices and innovations during the COVID-19 pandemic;
• demonstrate an inherent ‘permission’ to apply innovation and transformative change;
• evidence practical, real world examples of innovation that support the application of good practices to other areas;
• showcase NHS Wales as a leader in implementing innovation and new ways of working throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

A broad range of qualitative and quantitative evidence has been gathered from practitioners at all levels of the healthcare system, who have worked tirelessly to adapt to an unprecedented set of circumstances while still caring for and protecting Welsh citizens.

Content

Seven key themes:

• More agile use of resource
• Staff well-being
• Working together
• Accelerated decision-making
• Sustaining the pace of innovation and change
• Digital access and confidence
• Embracing new technology.

Recommendations

The Study report provides 12 recommendations for how decision-makers and practitioners from across NHS Wales can sustain the innovative and transformative ways of working that have emerged.

1. NHS Wales organisations should coproduce an Innovation Strategy with Welsh Government
2. NHS Wales organisations should develop and implement an Innovation Framework and processes to enable innovation
3. Review workforce development approaches to increase innovation capacity across NHS Wales
4. Improve visibility of innovation contact points across NHS Wales organisations
5. Promote, champion and engender a shared purpose and passion for continual improvement
6. Review staff redeployment practices
7. Understand and act upon health and well-being impacts on staff as a result of increased pressure
8. Continue to actively and purposefully integrate health and social care
9. Review governance in relation to decision making
10. Foster and encourage multi- and interdisciplinary networks, for improved long-term agility
11. Ensure no one is left behind within the digital agenda
12. Develop a forward-looking vision and strategy for the safe integration of disruptive technologies that takes into account the future needs of our population.

To access the full detail of the report, follow the link below.