The UK Prime Minister’s recent pledge to shift to a fully digital NHS, following Lord Darzi’s report, signifies a monumental transformation for healthcare delivery in the country. This shift is intended to modernise an overstretched system and improve patient outcomes through technology-driven solutions such as AI, telehealth, and integrated care systems. A digital-first NHS could improve efficiency, reduce administrative burdens, and support preventative care. However, it also signals a substantial restructuring of services, requiring Trusts to rethink their delivery models, embrace digital innovation, and prioritise community-based care.
For NHS Trusts, this transformation could bring both opportunities and challenges. The integration of advanced technologies like AI and data-driven healthcare is expected to improve patient experiences, but it requires significant investment and cultural shifts within organisations. The government’s recognition of healthcare as an economic driver, focusing on maintaining a healthy, working-age population, including older workers, reinforces the importance of investing in these changes
At Apira, we understand the complexity of this digital transition and stand ready to support Trusts through every stage. From building compelling business cases to helping Trusts select the right digital solutions, our expertise spans the entire digital journey. We offer bespoke services, including solution deployment and optimisation, ensuring that Trusts can not only keep up with but also lead this digital revolution.
Geoff Broome, Director and Founder of Apira points out: “We are seeing more of the same big shifts—community care, digital, and prevention. But the challenge now is that the starting point is much worse than when these suggestions were made in 2002. Back then, New Labour threw money at the problem, which worked to some degree. Now, we are facing a comprehensive review of care models and likely the gradual end of the universal service model. Despite these challenges, Apira is fully committed to supporting the digitisation agenda in any way we can.”
He adds, “It is encouraging to see the economic argument for healthcare being made clearer. A healthy, working-age population is essential for economic growth, which makes investing in the NHS all the more critical.”
Apira are helping Trusts navigate this new digital landscape with tailored solutions that meet their specific needs. To find out more about how we can help, please get in touch with Rory Dennis, Director of Growth rory.dennis@apira.co.uk.