Track and Trace – exposing inequalities
The results of a poll published by an independent charity “reveals a significant ‘digital divide’ along the lines of occupation, educational level and age.”
The poll also revealed that: “Almost three quarters (73%) of people in managerial, administrative or professional jobs say they are likely to download the app, but among the routine and manual workers, state pensioners and the unemployed, this figure falls to just half (50%)…… While 71% of those with a degree say they are likely to download the app, this falls to 63% for those with A-levels or equivalent only, 59% for those with GCSEs or equivalent, and 38% among those with no formal qualifications.”
The charity went on to note: “The potential negative impact of this digital divide must be considered against a backdrop of significant and growing socioeconomic and health inequality in the UK which has left those living in poorer areas at significantly increased risk from COVID-19. Recent data have shown that those in the most deprived areas are twice as likely to die from the virus.**”
Pharmacy teams need to be able to explain, in clear and straightforward language, to their patients the track and trace system so as to protect these at-risk groups from COVID-19.
The findings from the charity can be found here. |