NHS England requires trusts to implement the national Federated Data Platform (FDP) and its analytic products within a two-year timeframe.
The chief operating officer, Dame Emily Lawson, and national transformation director, Vin Diwaker, sent a letter to all trust executives and COOs, requesting confirmation of their intention to adopt the NHS FDP within the specified time frame, according to HSJ.
Initially, trusts were informed that the FDP would be rolled out in phases over three years, and adoption was optional. However, NHS England’s recent directive makes its use mandatory for trusts.
The FDP program, under the guidance of Rebecca Llewellyn, is progressing swiftly with more trusts joining the platform daily. The focus is now on product enhancements, wider adoption, and supporting new trusts and ICBs in onboarding the FDP.
Trusts have been instructed to appoint a named lead for FDP adoption and provide a timeline for implementing nationally commissioned local products available through the platform by the specified quarters of 2024 and 2025.
The letter also emphasizes the importance of FDP adoption for the entire NHS and encourages trusts to confirm their plans by a set deadline.
NHS England clarifies that while adoption is not mandated, the aim is for all trusts and ICBs to maximize the benefits of the Federated Data Platform within the stipulated two-year period.
To assist in promoting adoption, NHS England awarded a contract to consultancy firm KPMG to support trusts and ICBs in implementing the FDP.
The platform, criticized for its slow uptake by Health Secretary Wes Streeting, aims to streamline information from various systems for improved patient care and efficiency.
