Advancing AI and Automation in the NHS
The Digital Innovation Unit continues to explore the potential of AI and automation across NHS services, including governance models, use case development, and integration approaches. This work is helping shape future adoption of emerging technologies in a safe and sustainable way.
Strategic Opportunity : Strengthening Digital Innovation in the NHS
The NHS Digital Innovation Unit is an award-winning team with a proven track record of delivering scalable digital solutions. We offer mature applications, national contracts, and deep expertise in NHS governance and clinical safety. As the NHS evolves, we’re seeking a new organisation to host this ready-made innovation capability.
AI and Ethics Series : From Ethics to Assurance - Building the NHS 'AI MOT' with an AI TrustMark Review
We test cars every year for roadworthiness. Shouldn’t we do the same for the AI tools guiding patient care? Following my article on Regional AI Ethics Committees, I’ve explored how we could keep NHS AI safe after deployment, through a national AI TrustMark Review that ensures every system remains accurate, fair, and transparent long after go-live.
Digital Innovation Unit renews ISO accreditations for quality and information security
The Digital Innovation Unit (DIU) has successfully renewed its certifications for the internationally recognised ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 27001 (Information Security Management) standards for another 3 years.
AI and Ethics Series : Building a Shared Framework for AI Governance in the NHS: Seven Regions, One Conversation
The NHS is adopting AI at speed, transcription tools, diagnostics, triage systems, but our governance hasn’t caught up. In my latest article, I’ve outlined a working concept for Regional AI Ethics Committees (RAIECs), a way to share expertise, reduce duplication, and strengthen assurance across England. The idea is simple: seven regions, one shared framework. A single N365 portal for AI reviews and approvals Mutual recognition of decisions between regions to reduce duplication Consistent training and procurement standards Continuous post-market monitoring Without EU-style AI legislation, we need smarter governance and clearer contracts to protect clinicians, Trusts, and especially primary care. I’m now testing this concept with PPIE groups, NHS colleagues, and Health Innovation Networks and I’d really value your feedback.
AI and Ethics Series : AI in UK Healthcare: The Regulatory and Legal Landscape (and Its Gaps)
AI in healthcare is moving fast, but the UK’s regulatory framework isn’t keeping pace. We have MHRA, NICE, ICO, CQC, HSSIB and long-standing tort law. Each plays a role, but none owns the whole picture. The result? If an AI system fails, the liability often lands on clinicians and Trusts by default. This risk is even sharper in primary care, where GP practices and pharmacies don’t have procurement or governance teams to protect them. Without a coherent national plan, the smallest providers could end up carrying the biggest risks. In Europe, the AI Act provides a clearer chain of accountability. In the UK, we’re left patching gaps with contracts and assumptions. In article 6, I map out the current UK landscape and explain why the absence of AI-specific legislation leaves the NHS and especially primary care exposed.
