Use of the NHS Federated Data Platform in NHS Kent and Medway
We recognise that members of the public expect the NHS to protect their personal information to the highest standards. We also understand why patients and local communities may have questions about how patient data is used by digital systems.
The Federated Data Platform is a nationally commissioned NHS programme. Decisions regarding its development and procurement are made at a national level.
Locally, NHS Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board is responsible for ensuring that any systems used within our organisation meet all applicable legal, regulatory, privacy, security and information governance requirements, while supporting the delivery of the best possible care for patients.
To date, NHS Kent and Medway ICB has activated its local Federated Data Platform tenant. Its current scope is focused on the Strategic Commissioning Tool, which is available to specific authorised ICB staff to help them explore and understand its capabilities.
All data currently held in our FDP tenant has been processed nationally using privacy-enhancing technology to remove personally identifiable information before being provided to the ICB by NHS England. No information from local GP practices or identifiable information from NHS trusts has been used.
We are exploring elements of the different tools available to ICBs. This work is at a very early stage, and any decision to adopt these tools as part of routine business would be subject to the same rigorous assurance requirements that apply to all NHS digital systems.
All data-processing activities would continue to be conducted in accordance with robust privacy, security and information governance standards, as set out in the relevant Data Protection Impact Assessment. This includes clear procedures to protect personal and sensitive information and to ensure compliance with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
NHS Kent and Medway ICB will update its privacy notice as its use of the Federated Data Platform evolves. The ICB will remain open, transparent and accountable in its management and use of the platform.
The overall purpose of the platform is to connect NHS information safely, enabling the NHS to plan services proactively, identify health trends and better understand the factors contributing to poorer outcomes among different population groups. For example, it may help the NHS understand how many people could be affected by conditions such as diabetes or asthma.
Integrated care boards and NHS trusts already using the NHS Federated Data Platform are applying it to areas including care coordination, population health management and supply-chain priorities.
Further information about the NHS Federated Data Platform is available on the NHS England website.
Watch the NHS Federated Data Platform explainer animation video for patients.