Towards a national capability framework for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Medicine tools – A learning needs approach

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence has the potential to transform the delivery of healthcare in the National Health Service (NHS), from streamlining workflow processes to improving accuracy of diagnosis and personalising treatment, as well as helping staff to work more efficiently and effectively. Digital technologies have transformed most sectors which affect our daily lives, from communication to transport, banking and entertainment, and healthcare is now starting to follow. These technologies will allow patients and clinicians to better manage and monitor chronic health conditions, promote health and wellbeing and deliver care with more innovative approaches. For successful implementation and adoption of these technologies within the health system, there is an apparent focus towards preparing, upskilling and supporting the current and future healthcare workforce through traditional educational approaches. Health Education England, an executive non-departmental public body, sponsored by the United Kingdom's Department of Health and Social Care, is taking steps to perform a learning needs analysis to inform the first national capability framework for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Medicine tools, to direct educational strategy and policy which will have local, national and international implications for healthcare education.