Weekly Newsletter - 13.06.2024

Framework Cancellation

NHS England scraps digital pathways framework for GP tech

NHS England has scrapped its £300 million digital pathways framework for GP technology due to delays from a legal claim. The framework aimed to modernise general practice by connecting integrated care boards with approved digital GP tool suppliers. Despite the cancellation, NHS England assures that practices can still access high-quality digital solutions through existing arrangements and additional funding. The decision follows a suspension in February 2024 and subsequent delays, including those related to the upcoming general election. Further options for digital pathways products will be announced in due course.

AI in Chronic Disease Management

NIH funds validation of graft-versus-host disease assessment AI

Vanderbilt University Medical Center researchers have received a $4.2 million NIH grant to validate an AI tool for assessing skin changes in chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) patients. cGVHD, a serious complication post-stem cell transplantation, requires effective monitoring. The AI aims to improve the accuracy and efficiency of skin assessments, which are currently subjective and time-consuming. The project will utilise a database of over 11,000 photographs to refine the tool, potentially enhancing clinical trials, patient outcomes, and at-home monitoring while reducing clinician workload.

Approach to Digital Tech

NHS England drops planned procurement framework for primary care digital tech

NHS England has scrapped its planned procurement framework for primary care digital technology, initially valued at up to £297 million. Instead, it will focus on enabling integrated care boards (ICBs) to help GP practices procure technology through the Primary Care Access Recovery Plan. This shift aims to provide GP surgeries with the latest tech to improve patient access. The original framework, which included capabilities like online consultations and video consultations, was halted due to a claim against the process. Future options for suppliers are anticipated.

Digital Health Upskilling

How can we enhance workforce upskilling in digital health?

To meet the growing demand for digital health expertise, healthcare professionals must enhance their skills in areas like IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and AI. Prof. Dr. Georgi Chaltikyan advocates for integrating digital health courses into existing curricula, offering micro-courses and digestible content. This approach aims to build trust in technology among healthcare workers and patients, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing burnout. Policy actions, as suggested by the OECD, are also crucial to overcoming digital transformation barriers and ensuring effective use of digital health technologies.

Optimising AI in Healthcare

Maximising AI Deployment Value in Healthcare Requires a Hybrid Edge-to-Cloud Strategy

Healthcare organisations are adopting a hybrid edge-to-cloud strategy to maximise the value of AI deployments. This approach allows hospitals to process data both on-site and, in the cloud, providing real-time intelligence at the point of care. By optimising computing resources, hospitals can handle complex workloads efficiently, improving patient care while managing costs. The strategy addresses challenges like cybersecurity, budget constraints, and staffing shortages, enabling healthcare providers to leverage AI effectively. This flexible infrastructure supports innovative clinical workflows and enhances the overall quality of patient care.

Building Trust in GenAI

Healthcare Consumers' Trust in Generative AI Has Room to Grow

Deloitte's 2024 Health Care Consumer Survey reveals that consumer trust in generative AI for healthcare remains low, hindering its adoption. The survey, which included over 2,000 US adults, found that 37% used GenAI for health purposes in 2024, down from 40% in 2023. Distrust in the information provided by GenAI increased, particularly among millennials and baby boomers. The report suggests that healthcare organisations can build trust by educating patients, engaging clinicians, ensuring transparency, and partnering with credible community organisations to promote the benefits and safe use of GenAI.