The Role of Big Data in Transforming the NHS – Practical Steps Forward

Technology is changing healthcare in ways that were scarcely imaginable only five years ago. Reform's work has strongly supported digital innovation in health, particularly with regard to the use of data generated by the NHS, to create a number of important benefits.  These will include new care models for the Service, new pharmaceuticals and devices and new companies in the health technology sector. In time, artificial intelligence will only accelerate the delivery of these ideas. At the same time, it is crucial to recognise the need for robust safeguards around the use of NHS data, in order to preserve privacy and patient confidence.

Reform was delighted to host this panel discussion, led by Baroness Blackwood, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department of Health and Social Care, to explore how government can best harness partnerships with leading universities and industry to realise the potential applications of Big Data in the NHS. This event brought together 20 attendees, including senior policy-makers, public service practitioners, academics and industry leaders.

The roundtable was held under the Chatham House Rule.

This event was kindly supported by the Quadram Institute: