The Sudlow Review, published in November 2024, examines how the UK can better utilise its health data resources to benefit society.
Led by Professor Cathie Sudlow OBE FMedSci, 'Uniting the UK's Health Data: A Huge Opportunity for Society' is an independent review commissioned by the Chief Medical Officer for England, the UK National Statistician and NHS England’s National Director for Transformation, and sets out a bold vision for overcoming the barriers and inefficiencies that currently delay the safe and secure use of health data to improve lives.
Professor James Naismith FMedSci, Vice-President (Non-Clinical) at the Academy of Medical Sciences, said: “The publication of the Sudlow Review marks a significant step towards making health data work better for the UK. Strong, trustworthy data systems, designed and delivered with input from patients, researchers and healthcare providers, will lead to better care and support innovations in treatment and prevention. Embedding an effective health data infrastructure is crucial to building an NHS that is fit for the future.
“Success depends on active and equitable partnerships. Agreements between the NHS and its partners must ensure that everyone, especially patients and the NHS, reap the benefits of harnessing data.
“The Academy of Medical Sciences and its Fellows will support these changes, bringing expertise and experience to help develop data systems that work for everyone. The Sudlow recommendations can make the UK’s health data a truly national asset, improving both patient care and driving economic development.”