NHS England chief executive, Amanda Pritchard, has highlighted that the NHS is reaching a critical juncture in terms of technology integration.
Speaking at the NHS Confed Expo in Manchester on June 12, 2024, Pritchard emphasized the potential for transforming patient care through technological advancements, stating, “We have a unique opportunity to revolutionize our patient services, empowering the public with greater control over their health than ever before.”
Pritchard revealed that the NHS App, with 34 million users, has become a significant tool in healthcare management, surpassing even the subscriber base of Netflix. She also shared statistics from April 2024, showing substantial utilization of the app for various healthcare needs.
Highlighting the modernization efforts within the NHS, Pritchard noted the implementation of electronic patient record systems in over 90% of hospitals and cloud-based telephony systems in GP practices. She also mentioned the progress made in unifying IT systems through the NHS federated data platform.
Looking ahead, Pritchard emphasized the importance of fostering innovation and leveraging technology to revolutionize healthcare delivery. She stated, “The time to think big and be radical is now,” urging stakeholders to explore the potential of connected systems, AI, and automation in transforming care services.
Pritchard also addressed the need for vigilance against cyber threats and emphasized the importance of inclusivity in technological advancements within the NHS.
The NHS Confed Expo, where Pritchard shared these insights, is scheduled for June 12-13, 2024.
