If you have never completed the Data Security Protection Toolkit (DSPT) you need to take the following action:

The DSPT is an online toolkit which you are required to complete if you have access to any NHS data systems (including NHS Mail).  As we increasingly work in a digital world the NHS intends to further open its systems to Adult Social Care providers. By having access to the NHS's digital systems it will transform the way we deliver care but in order to do this, providers must be able to demonstrate that they have adequate Data Protection policies in place.  This is where the Toolkit comes in. 

Why do I need to do this?

Adult Social Care and the Health Services are inextricably linked and this is being demonstrated by the increasing importance and use of digital care and health systems. During the COVID 19 crisis the NHS encouraged care providers to sign up to NHS Mail and this has resulted in much more streamlined sharing of records and data.

 

The NHS does not want to lose what we have gained and it wants to further expand the data and systems that it can share with Adult Social Care. The DSPT underpins all this as it shows that you have good data protection and security protections in place.

 

The DSPT is an extremely useful tool because it covers all areas of GDPR compliance that you as a Care Provider are required to implement, such as having up to date policies and ICO registration, ensuring you are operating within the law. It is also a contractual requirement to work with CCG's and Local Authorities.It is looked upon favourably by CQC (KLoE 2.8 Well Led).

What are the benefits?

Once you have completed the DSPT it ensures your continued access to NHS Mail. You will have seen the benefits of using NHS Mail and how it allows secure data to pass to the NHS and back again. For example it allows GPs to send prescriptions to you securely.

 

It includes Microsoft Teams video conferencing which is being used by doctors to do virtual consultations when they are unable to visit the home. DSPT compliance can also potentially give you access to NHS records and this is being rolled out across the country.

 

What help is available?

The DSPT has been rewitten to make it simpler to understand and many of the questions are now more care specific.  Completing the DSPT is not a 5 minute job and requires some preparation beforehand so a program of support is available to help you successfully complete the Toolkit, both at a national level and locally.

 

At a national level the Digital Social Care website has lots of online reources and templates you can access and they are also delivering a series of webinars to give you more information about the DSPT.