Promoting digitalisation in the care sector

Outpatient and inpatient care facilities have the opportunity to receive one-off financial support for the purchase of digital or technical equipment. The aim of this funding measure is to improve the quality of care, relieve the burden on care staff and increase the efficiency of care processes. By making targeted investments in modern technologies, care facilities can benefit from numerous advantages and better meet the challenges of the future.

The promotion in detail

The promotion of digitalisation in care, as described in § 8 Abs. 8 SGB XI offers care facilities a valuable opportunity to receive one-off financial support for the acquisition and implementation of digital or technical equipment. This funding is a central component of the Nursing Staff Strengthening Act (PpSG), which came into force on 1 January 2019 and aims to improve working conditions in the care sector and sustainably increase the quality of care.

Which digital technologies are eligible for funding?

The funding covers a wide range of technologies that can be used in care. These include, among others:

• Electronic documentation: Systems that enable the digital recording and management of care data in order to make the care process more transparent and efficient.
• Telemedicine applications: Technologies that enable the remote monitoring of patients and facilitate access to medical advice and care.
• Assistance systems: Intelligent aids that support care staff in their work, e.g. lifting and transfer aids or intelligent care beds.
• Communication systems: Solutions that improve communication between carers, patients and relatives, e.g. video telephony or secure messaging services.

How is the digitisation of care being promoted?

Funding in accordance with Section 8 (8) SGB XI takes the form of a one-off subsidy of up to 40%, up to a maximum of €12,000, which care facilities can apply for from the care insurance funds. In principle, the facilities must submit an application and prove that the subsidised measures contribute to improving the quality of care and relieving the burden on care staff.

Advantages of digitalisation

• Relief for care staff: The use of digital aids can automate routine tasks and thus relieve the burden on care staff.
• Improving the quality of care: Electronic documentation systems enable more accurate and faster recording of patient data and thus improve the quality of care.
• Increased efficiency: Digital technologies contribute to the optimisation of care processes, which can save time and resources.
• Better communication: Digital communication tools can improve the exchange between carers, patients and relatives.

Digitalisation in the care home:
More quality of life through modern technology

Increasing demand for care, persistent staff shortages and high demands on the safety of residents are just some of the challenges that care facilities have to face on a daily basis. Digitalisation in care homes can help here by offering innovative solutions for optimising work processes, improving care and increasing safety.  Read more

Disclaimer

The information in this article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. We accept no liability for the accuracy, completeness and currency of the content. Care facilities should contact the relevant authorities to find out about the current funding conditions. If you have specific legal questions or concerns, we recommend that you seek expert advice.

Sources:
Richtlinien des GKV-Spitzenverbandes nach § 8 Absatz 8 SGB XI