Academy calls for robust rules for patient data use by tech firms

A strong regulatory framework needs to be developed for the use of patient information in data-driven technologies, the Academy of Medical Sciences has said.

In a report published on 29 November, the academy outlined a set of principles for how NHS patient data could be securely used in wearable devices, phone apps and intelligent monitoring devices such as smart insulin pumps for diabetes.

To ensure the safe use of such data, it is necessary to set up an appropriate evaluation system and regulatory framework, it said, adding that data-driven technologies need to be regulated “in ways that build understanding, confidence and trust, and guide their use in the NHS”.