Fixing the Digital and Data Infrastructure of the NHS: A National Priority
In an era where digital transformation is reshaping industries across the globe, the National Health Service (NHS) in England is prioritizing the enhancement of its digital and data infrastructure. Vin Diwakar, the medical director for transformation at NHS England, emphasized this commitment during his keynote address at the Health Excellence Through Technology (HETT) conference on September 25, 2024. His insights shed light on the pressing need for modernization within the NHS, particularly in the context of a recent survey conducted by the British Medical Association (BMA).
The Current State of NHS Digital Tools
Diwakar referenced the BMA’s 2022 survey, which revealed alarming statistics regarding the digital tools available to healthcare professionals. Only 11% of doctors reported having the basic tools necessary for their jobs, while over 70% identified a lack of interoperability as the most significant barrier to integrated care. This data underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of the NHS’s digital infrastructure to ensure that healthcare providers can deliver high-quality care efficiently.
Progress in Electronic Patient Records
Despite the challenges, Diwakar highlighted the progress made in recent years. The NHS has supported 160 trusts in upgrading or implementing new electronic patient records (EPR). By March 2026, 97% of NHS trusts are expected to have an EPR in place, a significant step forward, although Diwakar acknowledged that this timeline is still not fast enough. The remaining 3% of trusts are currently in the procurement phase, indicating a commitment to achieving comprehensive digital integration across the board.
Emphasizing Improvement Science
During his address, Diwakar called for the adoption of improvement science as the primary methodology for addressing clinical and operational challenges within the NHS. He asserted that the most effective way to enhance patient care is to disseminate proven best practices across the healthcare system. This approach not only fosters innovation but also ensures that successful strategies are shared and implemented widely, ultimately benefiting patients and healthcare providers alike.
Modernizing Data Platforms
A critical aspect of Diwakar’s vision for the NHS involves modernizing data platforms. He emphasized the importance of measurement in management, stating, “If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.” The NHS has made strides in reducing the overwhelming number of data flows—previously totaling 1,900—by moving towards faster and more efficient data flows. This modernization is essential for improving operational efficiency and enhancing the quality of care delivered to patients.
Federated Data Platform Implementation
Diwakar also provided an update on the implementation of the federated data platform, noting that the NHS is ahead of schedule. As of September 2024, more than half of acute trusts have signed up for this initiative, which aims to streamline data sharing and improve interoperability across the NHS. This progress is crucial for creating a cohesive digital ecosystem that supports integrated care.
Transforming Citizen Interactions
Another priority outlined by Diwakar is the transformation of citizen interactions through digital services, particularly the NHS App. He acknowledged that while the app has seen the development of new features, there has been a lack of an overarching vision for how it can better support citizens in navigating their health. This sentiment echoes findings from Lord Darzi’s recent investigation into the NHS, which criticized the app for not delivering a “digital-first” experience akin to those found in other sectors.
Fostering Innovation and Research
In addition to improving patient interactions, Diwakar emphasized the importance of creating a thriving ecosystem for innovation, research, and life sciences within the NHS. This initiative aims to harness the potential of new technologies and research to enhance healthcare delivery and outcomes. By fostering a culture of innovation, the NHS can remain at the forefront of medical advancements and improve the overall quality of care.
Commitment to High-Quality Services
Diwakar concluded his address by reaffirming the NHS’s commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable national services. He praised the NHS Spine, which successfully migrated to the cloud in January 2024, and highlighted the exceptional capabilities of the NHS’s cyber operations team. With a reputation for excellence in cybersecurity, the NHS is well-positioned to protect sensitive patient data and maintain the integrity of its digital systems.
Looking Ahead
As the NHS prepares for the upcoming autumn spending review, Diwakar expressed confidence in the government’s shared ambitions for the digital, data, and technology transformation of the service. The path forward is clear: by prioritizing the enhancement of digital infrastructure, the NHS can improve patient care, streamline operations, and foster innovation in healthcare delivery.
In conclusion, the NHS’s commitment to fixing its digital and data infrastructure is not just a national priority; it is a vital step towards ensuring that healthcare professionals have the tools they need to provide the best possible care. As the NHS continues to evolve, the focus on modernization and innovation will be crucial in meeting the challenges of the future and delivering high-quality healthcare to all citizens.