A new report from the UCD Professional Academy is calling for strategic action to address a critical digital skills gap in the healthcare workforce.
The industry insights report, Tackling Digital Transformation in Healthcare, says a “critical gap currently exists in digital skills”.
“Organisations have invested in digital infrastructure but in many cases the ability to effectively use these tools and technologies is lacking,” it found. “This shortfall is evident in areas including AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity.”
A survey conducted earlier this year by telecommunications provider eir evo, supported by Microsoft Ireland, found that 65 per cent of Irish frontline healthcare workers rated their organisations as ‘highly digitalised’ but 62 per cent felt they were ‘digitally poor’ in their roles.
Data and security concerns were significant, with 39 per cent of workers having experienced data security incidents. Almost 40 per cent said they were worried about causing a security incident.
The figures suggest that while there is a clear need and enthusiasm for digital health solutions, there is a challenge in terms of staff numbers and digital ability.
The UCD report says many healthcare managers also lack training in both necessary digital skills and strategic skills.
“Modern integrated digital healthcare offers tremendous potential but requires a workforce who are suitably skilled in specific areas, such as AI, data use and cybersecurity, and leaders equipped with both digital and change management skills,” according to the report.
“Ultimately the success of digital transformation initiatives in Irish healthcare hinges on the parallel development of a suitably skilled workforce.”
The report recommends fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning to drive the digital transformation of healthcare services. Short, flexible and ongoing training options are advised, with customised learning solutions using real world data emerging as a preferred option for the sector.
However, the document states, digital training programmes in specific areas are only the first step. Healthcare leaders also need digital literacy and change management skills to steer transformation.
Digital skills are not a once-off investment, and the report recommends providing staff with upskilling opportunities that “will ensure that urgent skills gaps are continuously minimised as well as placing a clear priority on learning at an organisational level”.
“Research suggests that the half-life of skills is shrinking and they are no longer relevant within 2.5 to five years. Digital health is a fast-moving space, so healthcare staff would benefit from regular and rapid upskilling in particularly fast evolving areas,” according to the document.
“The current landscape, characterised by a digital skills gap and staffing shortages, underscores the need for strategic action.”
UCD Professional Academy CEO John Delves said the digital transformation of healthcare presents several challenges and opportunities for the industry in Ireland.
“While potential benefits are immense, realising them requires a workforce equipped with the necessary digital skills and a leadership team capable of driving change,” he said.
“This report highlights the urgency of addressing the digital skills gap, ensuring the focus is not only on equipping employees with specific digital skills but training leaders to manage the changes needed.
“By investing in both digital and leadership skills, Irish healthcare organisations can create a situation where everyone benefits, boosting patient and staff health and wellbeing and the health of Ireland’s economy.”
