Social Care assistive ‘Telecare’ technology: ethical implications as integration with secondary mental health models gathers pace

Abstract

The article explores how the continued merger of Health and Social Care opens-up opportunities for cross-fertile disciplinary approaches—such as mainstream Health models incorporating more positive risk-taking strategies (arguing that such smart solutions offer an utilitarian ‘nudge’ response to an environment of constricted funding that is scalable and measurable). Ethical safeguards are also explored by aligning the proposal with current legislative imperatives and policy guidance (notably The Mental Health Act 1983, The Human Rights Act 1998, The Data Protection Act 1998, Health and Social Care Act 2012 and current Care Bill).

Keywords:

• Phrases
• assistive technology
• medication adherence
• utilitarian solution
• measurable

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes on Contributor

Paul E. Delaney is the Social Work Governor, a Senior Forensic Social Work Practitioner and Approved Mental Health Practitioner for South Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust.

Notes

¹Royal College of Psychiatry Team of the Year: Working-age adults 2014.

²Participants will, however, be informed from the outset that indications of non-compliance are to be reported should they opt-in (based on tort law, i.e. a duty of care that is inherent in health and social care practice).