New data strategy launched to improve patient care

The way data is used across health and care sectors is set to be transformed by a draft strategy published by NHSX, ahead of public and stakeholder consultation. 

A final version of ‘Data saves lives: reshaping health and social care with data’ will be published in the summer. 

Under the proposals patients will have better access and control over their health and care data. They will be able to view their medical records and keep track of their test results, medication lists, care plans and other health information. 

The draft strategy also proposes: 

• modernising data architecture and infrastructure underpinning the health and care system to improve standards, protect data and stay ahead of cyber risk 
• supporting innovation for the benefit of patients and staff such as empowering patients to test and monitor changes in their vision remotely using an app, and using AI to assess data from care home workers’ reports to predict the likelihood of falls and hospital admissions of patients, enabling appropriate safeguards to be put in place 

• building on improvements to speed up access to data during the pandemic, where there is clear benefit for the system as a whole. 

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock, said: “Data saves lives. More effective use of data will deliver better patient focused care. It will free up staff time to focus on patients and allow clinicians to make better, more informed decisions on treatment and support.” 

“The pandemic has taught us we must be bold and the great strides we have made on vaccines and treatments during this time have been made possible by the way we use data. 

“This strategy seeks to put people in control of their own data, while supporting the NHS in creating a modernised system fit for the 21st century which puts patients and staff in pole position.” 

A range of health and care leaders have expressed support for the draft strategy and been welcomed by patient group, use MY data. 

Matthew Gould, NHSX chief executive, said: “Throughout the pandemic we saw examples of data improving care and saving lives – from the speed of vaccine development to the discovery of treatments for COVID-19. If we want to continue improving care, we need to transform how we use data. 

“Patients need to own their data, have access to their data, and have confidence on how the NHS is handling it on their behalf. 

“This strategy takes this agenda firmly forward, and is good news for patients, staff, citizens and anyone who cares about the future of the NHS.” 

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/data-strategy-to-support-delivery-of-patient-centred-care 

*FCC will be responding to this draft strategy and interested parties should contact research@futurecarecapital.org.uk