We welcome today’s announcement of a new health data research service, jointly funded by Wellcome and the UK government.
The Health Data Research Service aims to create a secure single access point for existing datasets, streamlining the process for researchers and potentially speeding up life-saving medical breakthroughs.
This is a valuable step towards implementing the Sudlow review recommendations and making better use of existing health data to support research, innovation, and improved health outcomes.
At Understanding Patient Data, we’ve consistently seen that people are supportive of their data being used for public benefit — when there are clear safeguards in place, transparency about how decisions are made, and visible patient and public involvement in decision-making. The governance arrangements put in place for the health data research service need to meet these expectations to ensure that public trust is earned and maintained.
In light of ongoing financial pressures and substantial change to how the NHS is managed, continued investment in public engagement is more critical than ever. The health data research service has the opportunity to build strong foundations from the start: transparent governance, clear accountability, and a commitment to delivering measurable public benefit.