UK to Invest £600 Mn in New Health Data Research Platform

The proposed platform will consolidate health data into a single, secure, and user-friendly system, eliminating the current need for researchers to navigate multiple data sources.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a major investment of up to £600 million ($767 million) to establish a new health data research service in the United Kingdom, set to launch by the end of 2026.

The initiative aims to streamline scientific research and significantly reduce the time required to conduct clinical trials.

The proposed platform will consolidate health data into a single, secure, and user-friendly system, eliminating the current need for researchers to navigate multiple data sources.

The government hopes this unified approach will enhance the efficiency of clinical studies and accelerate progress in treating diseases such as cancer, dementia, and arthritis.

“These measures will turbo-charge medical research and deliver better patient care,” said Starmer. “I am determined to make Britain the best place in the world to invest in medical research.”

Industry leaders have welcomed the move. Emma Walmsley, CEO of British pharmaceutical company GSK, emphasised the importance of effective implementation.

“The UK has unique potential to securely integrate health data with an NHS system that values innovation,” she noted, adding that this could advance the development of new medicines and vaccines while delivering economic and societal benefits.

The investment forms part of the government’s broader strategy to position the UK as a global hub for medical research and innovation.

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