Overview
The Digital and Transformation Lead role was introduced as a reimbursable role via the ARRS in October 2022 to support transformation activities in PCNs, including the adoption and effective use of technology. The key objective of the role is to support PCNs and their practices to deliver ongoing improvement to services. Improvement projects are not restricted to those that focus on the utilisation of digital tools and could include any transformation work that utilises data to improve quality, or efficiency, support population health management, workforce or estate planning. (NHS England, 2023)
Role Responsibilities:
DTL’s are expected to deliver a combination of the following responsibilities:
- To support PCNs to identify, scope and plan improvements.
- To deliver quality improvement projects, and support staff at all levels in the PCN to take forward change.
- To work with ICS’s to align strategy and approaches to improvement.
- To review and improve PCN’s digital maturity.
- To improve the adoption and optimise use of existing functionality and new technology to deliver benefits for patients and staff.
- To build relationships and facilitate integration and collaboration within the PCN, with other PCNs and with the wider system.
- To use data to support population health management, workforce and estate planning, and to identify opportunities to drive improvements in care quality and experience.
(NHS England, 2023) Resources accessed here: Digital and Transformation Lead – PCNs and Practices Support Hub – Integrated Care (future.nhs.uk)
And here: PRN01583-network-contract-des-spec-24-25-pcn-requirements-entitlements.pdf
Entry Requirements
The Digital and Transformation Lead role requires a degree level qualification in any subject, or equivalent experience in academic study, work or research. A project management qualification (such as PRINCE or Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) or significant experience is also a requirement.
See example NHSE DTL Job description in employer section below for further information on skills and attributes for this role.
Training and development
Funding
AFC Band 7/8a
100% of actual salary plus defined on costs covered via ARRS Scheme.
Mandatory Training
See above entry requirements
Additional Training Opportunities
There are some existing resources and training which are relevant to Digital and Transformation Leads role found here:
DTL Supervision:
The DTL will work closely with the PCN Manager or Clinical Director where a manager is not appointed.
The DTL will work closely on any digital and IT products for general practice with the ICB as part of the requirement of the GPIT Operating Model.
Supervision Requirements:
Supervision is a process of professional learning and development that enables individuals to reflect on and develop their knowledge, skills, and competence, through regular support from another professional.
Recruitment Information
Currently restricted to one FTE per PCN.
Can be employed directly by PCNs or commissioned by PCNs as a service from other providers.
Flexible role description, allowing for local definition of responsibilities.
Where a PCN employs or engages a Digital and Transformation Lead under the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme, the PCN must ensure that the Digital and Transformation Lead meets the ‘Minimum Role Requirements’ stipulated in Annex B of the Network DES: Network Contract DES (england.nhs.uk)
Please find various resources in this section to assist in the recruitment and embedding of the Digital and Transformation Lead role in General Practice.
FAQ Digital and Transformation Lead role (NHSE): FAQ Digital and Transformation Lead role NHSE.pdf
NHS Futures page – Practices and: Digital and Transformation Lead – PCNs and Practices Support Hub – Integrated Care NHSE Example Induction Checklist: PRN00057i-example-induction-checklist-template-mdt-general-practice.docx (live.com)
Extra Resources
Digital transformation in health and social care:
Digital and Transformation Lead Peer Support Network
A local peer support network for DTL’s working in General Practice across the Suffolk and North East Essex region.