Articles

Opinion: Breaking the Bias: From History to AI and the Digital Future

Bias is not new. For centuries it has shaped societies, policies, and opportunities. What is new is the way those same biases are now embedded into technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), with the potential to amplify inequality at scale. Understanding bias, where it comes from, and how to address it is critical if we are to create fair, inclusive systems that work for everyone. But before we consider AI, it’s worth reflecting on how women’s rights have been restricted even within the last century because those lessons show us exactly why vigilance is so important, as Lisa Goode, Consultant at Apira, an IQVIA business explains... Read More

Opinion: The HIMSS Influence Upon Your AI Roadmap

At the recent HIMSS Europe conference, it became clear that AI in healthcare is moving beyond buzzwords and into real-world application. From improved diagnostics to streamlined care pathways, the impact is already being felt, provided the right digital foundations are in place. In this article, Kiran Dave and Phill James, Managing Consultant at Apira, an IQVIA Business explores how HIMSS maturity models can guide health and care organisations in building a structured, data-driven AI roadmap that delivers meaningful outcomes. Read More

Opinion: EPR Change is Hard – But People Make It Possible

When most people hear the term change management, their minds jump to project plans, milestones, and neat Gantt charts. On paper, it looks straightforward: review and assess your current state, define your desired future, plan the journey, and execute. In reality? Well… it’s a little more complex than that, as Consultant Lou Jordan explains...  Read More

Opinion – Bytes and Beats: Life as a Digital Consultant and Eurovision Songwriter

At Apira, we believe in supporting people to thrive—not just in their roles, but as their whole selves. In this inspiring piece, Emma Kirkbride, one of our talented associates, shares how Apira’s flexible, trust-based model has enabled her to balance a thriving consultancy career in NHS digital transformation with her success as a Eurovision songwriter. From clinical systems to songwriting camps across the globe, Emma’s story is a powerful example of what’s possible when people have a work life balance that allows them to do a great job for their customers and clients whilst being able to pursue passions... Read More

Opinion: The Importance of Frameworks in Public Sector Procurement

Frameworks play a crucial role in public sector procurement, enabling buyers to efficiently procure goods and services from a list of pre-approved suppliers under pre-agreed terms and conditions. Frameworks contribute to the streamlining of procurement processes and the achievement of compliant, transparent, time and cost-effective routes to market and delivery of solutions benefiting suppliers and customers, as Celia Fleming, Commercial Manager at Apira explains... Read More

Opinion: Closing the Digital Divide: Why We Must Act Now

Digital transformation is advancing at an unprecedented pace, reshaping how we live, work, and access essential services. The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst, breaking down barriers that once hindered digital progress. It redefined what we considered 'normal' in terms of digital capabilities, leaving behind a legacy of technological advancements, particularly in health and social care. Digital tools have significantly improved patient experience, efficiency, and integrated care. Over the past decade, these innovations have brought about positive change—but only for those who can access them. However, digital exclusion remains a significant issue, with an estimated 17%-19% of people experiencing barriers to digital access, as Tia Corcoran, Project Support Consultant at Apira explains... Read More

Opinion: You Can’t Make it on Your Own – The Power of Partnerships

“Sometimes You Can’t Make It On your Own” – one of our Commercial Director David Corbett’s favourite U2 songs – not only that but also something very true about healthcare delivery. As David celebrates 6 years with Apira having moved from over a decade working on national programme delivery roles at NHS Digital and NHS England, he talks about the importance of partnerships in project delivery, and working with the right partners. Read More

Opinion – Laying the Foundations for Digital Transformation in Healthcare: The Critical Role of Adoption

Digital transformation is a phrase we hear often in healthcare circles, but what does it really mean? Is rolling out an Electronic Patient Record (EPR) enough to claim transformation, or is that just the beginning? In this thought‑provoking piece, Martin Smith, Managing Consultant at Apira, an IQVIA Business, invites us to look beyond the technology itself and focus on the people who will use it. Martin has spent years working alongside NHS Trusts across the UK, helping them navigate the challenges of large‑scale digital programmes. His experience has shown, time and again, that success isn’t just about the system you implement. It’s about how well your staff are supported to adopt new ways of working as Martin explains... Read More

Opinion: A Valentine’s Reflection on Apira’s Work

The 14th of February is traditionally a day of celebration of love, romantic or otherwise. It’s a day to express care, commitment, and appreciation for those who make a difference in our lives. At Apira, while we may not deal in roses and chocolates, our work is rooted in something just as profound: the love and care embedded in healthcare technology, as Nicola Cranfield, Senior Consultant explains... Read More