Story Highlight
– NHS tech funding boosts anticipation for 2026 innovations.
– AI to revolutionize diagnostics and patient care pathways.
– Community pharmacies evolve into integrated health hubs.
– Emphasis on equity-focused technologies in healthcare delivery.
– Rise of digital tools and platforms for patient access.
Full Story
With the recent announcement of additional financial support for NHS technology in the Autumn Budget, combined with the significant rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare and the ongoing development of the NHS’s 10-year health plan, optimism is surging throughout the digital health sector as the year 2026 approaches.
Digital Health News surveyed a range of health technology suppliers, seeking their insights and forecasts for what the landscape might look like in the coming year. Their responses reflect a shared enthusiasm and ambition for technology to play a transformative role in British healthcare services.
Shaun O’Hanlon, Chief Executive of Optum (UK), expressed confidence that technology will be essential in realising the NHS’s 10-year health plan, facilitating the transition of care beyond hospital settings. He anticipates enhanced interoperability and coordinated care powered by data-driven patient pathways. O’Hanlon envisions a revolution in diagnostics and elective care, addressing waiting lists through intelligent out-of-hospital care designed with patients at the centre. He stated, “Community pharmacies will increasingly function as local health hubs,” indicating their growing importance in managing healthcare demands. “2026 will see technology delivering measurable impact,” he added, highlighting the potential for significant improvements in patient outcomes and productivity through robust governance and human oversight of next-generation AI.
Steve Wightman, Managing Director of Access HSC, is looking for the 10-year health plan to evolve from a concept to practical implementation next year. He noted, “Digital and data, when done right, can genuinely supercharge healthcare professionals,” by reducing variation, freeing time for direct patient care, and addressing waiting lists. According to Wightman, a focus on ethical AI and predictive analytics, undergirded by interoperability, is crucial for directing prevention-based care toward local settings. He emphasised the potential breakthroughs in mental health services, foreseeing enhanced data utilisation facilitating better patient access to tailored treatments as the government establishes new integrated care measures.
Dr Rachael Grimaldi, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of CardMedic, voiced aspirations that the year 2026 could witness substantial on-the-ground advancements stemming from the NHS’s strategic vision. “The gap between innovation and implementation must finally close,” she stressed, advocating for the deployment of successful digital-first solutions across systems, rather than leaving them as isolated successes. Grimaldi is particularly optimistic about integrated care systems focusing on incorporating equity-driven technologies for widespread benefit. She raised concerns about whether procurement can keep pace with clinical needs but suggested that a collaborative approach between innovators and NHS infrastructure could lead to significant progress towards equitable care.
Tom Whicher, CEO and Founder of DrDoctor, predicted a marked shift towards an online NHS by 2026, with patients demanding seamless access to healthcare through interconnected platforms. He cited that the success of this initiative hinges on appropriate digital tools facilitating smooth connections between patients and clinicians. Whicher envisions the growth of neighbourhood health centres, already being piloted, to transform care delivery by integrating diagnostics and chronic condition management closer to home.
Mark Hutchinson, Executive Vice President at Altera Digital Health (UK and EMEA), believes that as digital capabilities become mainstream, healthcare trusts will focus on enhancing their systems. He foresees a shift towards optimising existing infrastructures while ensuring user-centred functionality that promotes safe and sustainable innovation at scale. Hutchinson anticipates that as these foundational elements solidify, trusts will unlock greater efficiencies and better patient care delivery should become achievable.
Brian Murray, Sales Director for the UK and Ireland at Better, echoed the sentiment that 2026 will be characterised by advanced open digital platforms. He expressed that there is increasing demand for vendor-neutral, standards-based infrastructure to support the shift towards neighbourhood health centres and community care. Murray pointed out that true interoperability will move from a long-term goal to being an operational necessity as AI continues to evolve into integral components of clinical decision-making.
Markus Bolton, CEO of Graphnet Health, articulated a vision of the NHS’s ‘left shift’, where more care will be administered closer to patients’ homes, supported by digital health records. He noted that robust population health analytics will enable healthcare systems to identify resource needs earlier, fostering proactive interventions.
Nick Wilson, CEO of System C, predicted that by 2026, AI would become an indispensable tool in enhancing health and social care services. He indicated that multiple advancements, including ambient voice technology and integrated AI solutions, will streamline clinical workflows and enable a patient-centred approach, alleviating administrative burdens for clinicians.
Chris Scarisbrick, Deputy UK Managing Director at Sectra, warned that imaging services might face immense pressure in 2026, necessitating advancements to improve efficiency and connectivity. He recommended that NHS systems need to embrace a comprehensive modernisation of diagnostic processes to remain viable amidst ongoing workforce challenges.
Sharon Hanley, Director of Primary Care at X-on Health, emphasised the importance of developing strong infrastructure around neighbourhood care models, which must entail clear referral pathways and bolstered communication to prevent operational confusion.
Graham Watson, Executive Chair of InnoScot Health, predicted that 2026 could see a significant leap in healthcare innovation, driven by the urgent need for effective digital solutions. He anticipates that increased adoption of digital health technologies could finally bridge the gap between current practices and the potential for improved patient care, propelled by economic pressures and societal demands.
Dr Harry Thirkettle, Director of Health Innovation at Aire Logic, addressed concerns around the NHS’s readiness to fully embrace AI technologies. He stressed the importance of developing sound data architecture and strong governance frameworks to facilitate the successful integration of these advanced tools into everyday operations.
As many industry leaders shared their visions for 2026, one common theme emerged: the vital role of comprehensive and interoperable data infrastructures. From mental health to community-based care, the predictions point towards needing a cohesive strategy that prioritises reliable data and genuine patient engagement to achieve substantial advancements in NHS services by the year’s end.
In summary, the consensus from digitally-savvy health technology leaders indicates a pivotal year ahead, filled with opportunities for transformative changes that could reshape the NHS landscape. With strategic investments and a commitment to ethical and patient-centred care, the anticipated developments in 2026 could lead to a more efficient, equitable, and accessible healthcare system.
Our Thoughts
The article discusses anticipated advancements in NHS technology by 2026, particularly in AI and digital health, but highlights a potential gap between innovation and implementation. To prevent issues associated with the rushed integration of technology, we must prioritize adherence to the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, ensuring that technology deployments follow appropriate risk assessments and comply with safety regulations.
Key lessons include the necessity for robust governance frameworks around AI use, as mentioned in the article, which aligns with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, requiring employers to assess risks and implement effective control measures.
Additionally, ensuring staff are adequately trained in the use of new technologies to safeguard both patient and employee safety is crucial and reflects the importance placed on proper training outlined in the Health and Safety (Training for Employment) Regulations 1990.
To prevent similar incidents, future initiatives must emphasize the integration of new systems with established processes while ensuring that digital innovations do not compromise safety or data integrity, aligning with the Data Protection Act 2018. Active engagement with all stakeholders during rollout is vital for success, as outlined in effective risk management practices.
