In a major step towards transforming healthcare in the UK, a new national commission has been launched to accelerate the safe and effective use of artificial intelligence (AI) across the NHS.
The initiative, unveiled by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), will unite clinicians, researchers, tech experts, and patient safety advocates to review and revamp the current regulatory framework around AI in healthcare.
Experts join forces to help accelerate NHS use of artificial intelligence
“We want regulation of AI in healthcare to move at the pace of innovation. It is crucial that AI regulation maintains patient safety and public confidence,” said Lawrence Tallon, Chief Executive of the MHRA.
This bold move aims to ensure that AI-driven tools, already being used in areas such as stroke diagnosis and cancer detection, can be rolled out more widely, quickly, and safely without compromising patient care.
Fast-Tracking Innovation Without Risking Safety
The commission will advise the MHRA on a new set of guidelines to speed up the implementation of AI technologies within the NHS, while keeping a firm eye on public trust and safety.
- New regulations are expected to be published next year.
- The commission will include representatives from global tech giants like Google and Microsoft.
- It will also focus on AI in radiology, pathology, and virtual home care.
With around half of NHS trusts already using AI tools for diagnoses like lung cancer, officials are keen to remove regulatory roadblocks and bring further innovations to the forefront.
A trial using the AI tool “Tortus” saw patient-clinician interaction time jump by 23.5%. If adopted nationally, this could enable 9,259 additional A&E consultations daily, according to economic modelling by York Health Economics Consortium.
Backed by Ministers, Driven by Tech Leaders
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall called the initiative a step towards unlocking the “incredible potential” of AI in improving early diagnosis and treatment.
“This commission will ensure the UK leads the way in making these game-changing technologies available in the safest possible way, helping more of us to lead healthy, longer lives and supporting our NHS,” she said.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had earlier described AI as a driving force behind “incredible change” for the country.
The Government’s digital transformation plan, including revamping the NHS app with AI-powered advice tools, highlights its commitment to modernising healthcare delivery.
Bridging Innovation with Ethical Oversight
Professor Alastair Denniston, who will chair the commission, brings together years of clinical and academic experience. He emphasised the importance of striking a balance between technological advancement and patient trust.
“This commission marks a vital step in ensuring the UK leads the way in responsible innovation, and in accelerating the availability of AI technologies that can support better health for everyone.”
The commission’s work will be underpinned by ethical considerations, particularly in AI’s application to sensitive areas like automated note-taking and virtual consultations.
Patients at the Heart of Innovation
Deputy Chairwoman Henrietta Hughes, the Patient Safety Commissioner, stressed that patient input must remain central to AI’s development in healthcare.
“AI in healthcare has the potential to bring huge benefits for patients, but it must be carefully regulated.”
The Health Foundation, acting as research partner for the commission, echoed this sentiment.
Dame Jennifer Dixon, its Chief Executive, noted that while the NHS 10-Year Plan made strong commitments to AI, robust and flexible regulation is essential to turn those ambitions into patient-focused realities.
“A robust and ethical framework is essential to maintain momentum, build trust in the technology among staff and patients and ensure the UK remains a leader in responsible AI in healthcare.”
Looking Ahead: UK’s Global Ambition in Health Tech
Officials believe that by clarifying AI regulations, the UK will become a more attractive destination for health tech investment.
This could not only benefit British patients but also strengthen the UK’s position as a global leader in responsible, ethical AI healthcare solutions.
With clear leadership, regulatory reform, and expert collaboration now in motion, the UK is firmly placing AI at the centre of a future-ready NHS where faster diagnoses, improved outcomes, and enhanced patient experiences are no longer distant possibilities, but rapidly approaching realities.
For more updates on NHS innovation and UK health tech, stay tuned to UK News Blog.
