Is the Government hungry for change?
This week, I attended an interesting event with the DHSC team responsible for developing the NHS's 10-year health plan. As Director of the Digital Healthcare Council, representing innovative digital health companies across the UK, I want to share some reflections - and a call for urgent action.
The extensive consultation exercise undertaken by DHSC has reinforced what many of us already know: while the British public remains proud of the NHS and its core principles, there are fundamental challenges in service delivery. The findings so far highlight issues around uncoordinated care, access to GP services, A&E, and dental care, alongside growing concerns about staff wellbeing and the ability to deliver services under increasing pressure.
Carrying out a thorough consultation is sensible but let's be clear: we don't have the luxury of time. Every day of delay means more patients waiting for care, more staff under unsustainable pressure, and more opportunities for transformation slipping away. The cost of inaction - both human and financial - is simply too high.
I was particularly struck by some misconceptions about the digital health sector's relationship with the NHS. The suggestion from a senior official that tech companies will only engage with the NHS for large profit margins, or that innovative companies are unwilling to work in partnership, simply doesn't reflect reality.
The evidence proves otherwise: our members like Lilli, HBSUK, TeleTracking, Livi, Preventx, HealthNet Homecare, and Holly Health are already collaborating with the NHS, delivering real value while working within reasonable commercial frameworks.
The digital health sector understands that resources are constrained, but this is precisely why innovative digital solutions are crucial. They can help optimise existing resources, improve access, and enhance care coordination - addressing many of the challenges identified in the consultation.
As we await the roadmap for the NHS's future, we cannot afford a timid approach or further delays. The Digital Healthcare Council and its members are committed to immediate, constructive partnership. If this Government is truly hungry for change, we have the solutions, expertise, and willingness to help make it happen - not in years, but now.
What are your thoughts on how we can accelerate the integration of digital innovation into NHS transformation?