The latest initiative in AI is designed to enhance patient management and accelerate the diagnostic process.
The NHS back office service systems has released a tender worth £150 million aimed at leveraging AI to boost diagnostic efficiency.
The NHS Shared Business Service notes that their existing AI solutions are nearing expiration, which has led them to consolidate their prior framework agreements into a single, “comprehensive offering.”
Earlier AI solutions from the NHS Shared Business Service encompassed AI applications for neuroscience aimed at stroke decision support, as well as imaging and radiotherapy technology and diagnostic imaging enhanced by AI.
The forthcoming framework agreement will emphasise how AI can be utilised across various specialties, utilising innovative methods to streamline clinical workflows related to diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
AI can assist with a variety of functions, from enhancing diagnostic accuracy and facilitating preventative care through quicker screenings to managing resources, creating efficient treatment plans, and providing specialised support for organisations implementing smart technology.
The new framework agreement will be initially split into six lots depending on AI’s prospective application:
Lot 1. Radiology and diagnostic imaging will be the first lot, where early detection and diagnostic will be achieved through data analysis and medical imaging across neurology, oncology, cardiology, urology, and ophthalmology.
Lot 2. Similarly, the second lot will focus on early detection and diagnostic through data analysis and medical imaging, this time focusing on pathology such as dermatology, haematology, and virology.
Lot 3. This lot will focus on using predictive analysis to improve management, such as patient flow and experience, hospital admissions and discharges, and patient appointments by using health data.
Lot 4. Research and development, including cross-institution collaboration, will be supported, possibly in drug discovery and clinical trials.
Lot 5. Clinical workflow optimisation will also be enhanced with AI, as well as supply chain management.
Lot 6. Specialist support, such as training, consultancy, and implementation will also be boosted by Ai.
“AI has the potential to transform NHS patient care, speeding up diagnosis and treatment times by ensuring that expert clinical resource is targeted where it has the greatest impact for the patient,” Kelly Bevington, senior category manager of digital and IT at NHS Shared Business Service said in a blog post about the new offering.
