NHS England is urging systems to prioritize the advancement of digital maturity across all sectors in its latest 2024/25 operational planning guidance. The guidance, released on 27 March, emphasizes the ongoing development of the NHS App and the rollout of the Federated Data Platform (FDP).
In the section titled ‘Planning for the future’ with a subsection ‘Harnessing data, digital and technology’, NHSE calls for continued support in leveling up provider digital maturity. NHSE affirms its commitment to the development of the NHS App as the digital front door to the NHS and the implementation of the FDP.
Systems are encouraged to connect services to the NHS App and collaborate with the national FDP team to ensure investments align with the platform. NHSE pledges to collaborate with systems to establish robust plans for technology investment to support the NHS productivity plan from 2025/6 onwards.
The £3.4 billion investment in data and technology aims to enhance access, waiting times, and outcomes in the NHS. NHSE describes the investment as transformative for both patients and staff. The guidance also stresses the importance of continuing to deliver strategic plans for digital health and social care.
Key actions outlined in the guidance include utilizing the latest digital maturity assessment to improve adherence to standards for digital leadership and infrastructure. NHSE expects Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) to have system-wide plans for robust cyber security following recent cyber attacks on the NHS.
NHSE guidance underscores the importance of maintaining cyber security measures after a recent attack on NHS Dumfries and Galloway resulted in the release of patient data by a ransomware group.
