Digital transformation in healthcare position paper
With the publication of the 10 Year Health Plan and Life Sciences Sector Plan outlining digital transformation of the NHS, there is a significant opportunity to reshape healthcare delivery through innovation, however implementation is going to be key to success. The IET aims to support the development of a robust, evidence-led framework that ensures safe, effective, and scalable deployment of digital technologies across the UK healthcare system.
The IET recommends:
- Assessing and approving new technologies: The IET recommends that government updates and clarifies the central adoption scheme for new technologies to ensure that as innovation happens in the NHS it is still consistent (GOV.UK, 'Innovator passports’ set to accelerate cutting-edge NHS care). It is important to consider the capacity, needs and resources of the entire clinical pathway and its interaction with the rest of the system.
- Collaboration between devolved nations: The IET recommends continued collaboration between devolved nations in the UK, to share data and best practices on how technology is used.
- Transparency on data sharing: The IET recommends the continued development of technical standards, transparent documentation expectations, and harmonisation with international frameworks. This will lead to the transparency of what data has been used to develop the AI tools that are being utilised. The Responsible Handover of AI should be included as part of ethical guidance.
- Regulation and standards: The IET recommends the adoption of the new global standard for securing AI models and systems (ETSI EN 304 223) in order to support a structured and robust cybersecurity assurance model and the routine use of continuous monitoring tools for detecting drift, anomalies, or unsafe behaviour across the lifecycle of artificial intelligence driven systems.
- Resilience: The IET recommends an infrastructure plan for power stability and connectivity, alongside targeted funding to ensure resilience and safe development of (robotic) technology in healthcare. It is vital to consider the physical environments in which digital technologies are deployed. This consideration extends beyond hospital settings. Articulating the infrastructure requirements, alongside the necessary financial investment, are important steps of implementing the shifts stated in the 10 Year Health Plan.
- Upskilling and reskilling: The IET recommends that implementation of the 10 Year Health Plan is supported by cross sector experts to advise on upskilling workers and patients in the NHS to safely and efficiently use the technology and products being introduced. This plan will need to be constantly reviewed in line with changing technologies and requirements. Alongside this mitigating digital poverty and promoting health equity are essential to ensure that all patients benefit from new technologies.
- National cyber-security campaign: Hospitals and healthcare facilities can be a target for hackers, the IET is calling on Government to run a cyber-security campaign to help patients and healthcare professionals, as well as the wider public, to protect themselves against attack.