Accelerating NHS Use of AI (Artificial Intelligence)

A new national commission has been announced to accelerate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the NHS. The group will bring together doctors, researchers, experts from technology firms such as Google and Microsoft, and patient safety advocates. Its purpose is to advise the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) on new guidelines. The commission’s recommendations are expected to help speed up patient access to innovations while ensuring that safety and public confidence are maintained.

Current Use of AI in the NHS

AI is already being used across the NHS in a range of clinical areas. For example, it is applied to the analysis of brain scans from stroke patients. Around half of NHS trusts are also using AI to assist in diagnosing conditions such as lung cancer.

Government and Regulatory Priorities

The government has stated that this work will ensure the UK “leads the way” in making advanced technologies available to patients. The MHRA emphasised that regulation must keep pace with innovation, with its chief executive, Lawrence Tallon, highlighting AI’s potential to transform patient outcomes, improve access and equity of care, and increase efficiency.

Areas of Focus for the Commission

The commission will examine existing regulations and advise on a new rulebook, due to be published next year. It will focus particularly on AI applications in radiology, pathology, and technologies that allow clinicians to provide virtual care to patients in their own homes.

Trials Demonstrating Potential Benefits

Evidence of AI’s impact has already emerged from recent trials. One study involving almost 17,000 patient interactions tested an AI tool called Tortus, which automatically takes notes during appointments. The trial found that Tortus increased direct interaction between patients and clinicians by 23.5%.

Economic modelling by the York Health Economics Consortium, included as part of this study, suggested that national use of Tortus could create capacity for an additional 9,259 A&E consultations every day.

Political Support for AI in Healthcare

Senior government figures have voiced support for the initiative. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said that AI could help doctors spot and treat diseases earlier, stressing that patients should benefit from these opportunities “quickly and safely.” Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated earlier in the year that AI “will drive incredible change in our country.”

In July, the government also announced plans to expand the NHS app, including AI tools to provide instant advice for patients needing non-urgent care.

Leadership of the Commission

The commission will be chaired by Professor Alastair Denniston, professor of regulatory science and innovation at the University of Birmingham, honorary consultant ophthalmologist at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, and executive director of the UK’s Centre of Excellence for Regulatory Science and Innovation in AI & Digital Health Tech.

Professor Denniston described the commission as a vital step in making the UK a leader in responsible innovation and in accelerating access to AI technologies that support better health outcomes.

Patient Safety and Public Confidence

The importance of safety has been underlined by several leaders involved in the commission. Deputy chairwoman Henrietta Hughes, the Patient Safety Commissioner, said AI could bring huge benefits but must be carefully regulated and shaped by patients’ views.

Dame Jennifer Dixon, chief executive of the Health Foundation, noted that AI is advancing rapidly in healthcare, with growing evidence that it can improve care delivery, outcomes, and productivity. She stressed the need for a robust ethical framework to maintain momentum, build trust among patients and staff, and ensure the UK’s position as a leader in responsible healthcare innovation.

The Broader Vision

The NHS 10-Year Plan had already set a vision for greater use of AI. The establishment of this commission represents a major step towards realising that goal. It is expected not only to benefit patients through faster access to technology but also to attract more investment from health technology companies into the UK.