Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Scientists comment on the new Health Data Research Service, funded by the UK Government and the Wellcome Trust.
Understanding Patient Data, said:
“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 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.”
Janet Valentine, Executive Director Innovation and Research Policy, ABPI said:
“The scale and ambition of the Prime Minister’s announcement today shows he understands the huge opportunity for the UK to be a global leader in clinical research, and that unlocking research access to health data and speeding up the set-up of clinical trials are fundamental to achieving that goal.
“Public and patient confidence in the responsible use of health data will be critical to the success of the service, which is why the government is right to work closely with a trusted partner like the Wellcome Trust.
“To make the most of this opportunity, it will be essential to build on the existing strengths and expertise within the UK health data system. It will also be vital that the pharmaceutical industry, as a major investor in research and development of innovative medicines, plays an integral role in the design and implementation of the new health data research service.”
Government press release – Prime Minister turbocharges medical research: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/prime-minister-turbocharges-medical-research#:~:text=The%20Prime%20Minister%20has%20today,new%20Health%20Data%20Research%20Service
Wellcome Explainer: https://wellcome.org/news/national-data-service-will-simplify-access-health-data-research
Declared interests
The nature of this story means everyone quoted above could be perceived to have a stake in it. As such, they are implicit in each person’s affiliation.