Questions are being raised over the future of a major NHS technology contract after reports suggested Andy Burnham could seek to end the health service’s relationship with US software company Palantir.
The company currently provides the technology behind the NHS Federated Data Platform (FDP), a system designed to help hospitals manage patient data, reduce delays and improve efficiency across the health service.
The contract, awarded in 2023 and worth £330 million over seven years, has been credited by NHS officials with helping increase operating theatre usage, speed up patient discharges and support additional surgical procedures.
However, reports indicate that Mr Burnham, who is expected to become Prime Minister later this month following Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation, is reviewing the Government’s approach to artificial intelligence and major technology contracts.
The prospect of ending the Palantir arrangement has prompted criticism from opposition politicians who argue that decisions about NHS technology should be based on patient outcomes rather than political considerations.
Andrew Griffith, the Shadow Business Secretary, questioned whether removing the technology could have unintended consequences. He said:
“Most AI, including Palantir, is essentially an optimisation engine. It finds better solutions, faster.
“Does Andy Burnham think the NHS is so optimal it cannot be improved, or does he accept that kicking out Palantir will have a trade-off which is measured in more Brits dying?”
His comments were echoed by Shadow Health Secretary Stuart Andrew, who warned against abandoning systems that are already delivering results. He said:
“If Andy Burnham tears up a programme that is improving patient care, he will have to explain why he chose politics over patients.
“The NHS should use the best technology available to save lives, cut waiting lists and help staff deliver better care.”
Palantir’s involvement with the NHS has been controversial in some political circles. Critics have highlighted the company’s work with the Israeli Defence Forces and US immigration authorities, while others have expressed concerns about the political views of some of the firm’s senior executives.
More than half of NHS trusts in England are now reported to use Palantir technology. NHS figures suggest the system has been a success and helped support around 110,000 additional operations since the contract began.
Data reported by national media has also indicated that hospitals using the platform have achieved significant improvements in operating theatre utilisation, potentially increasing the number of patients who can receive treatment.
Supporters argue that the technology is helping the NHS make better use of limited resources at a time when waiting lists remain under pressure.
When approached for comment, Mr Burnham’s team said he “has not announced any final decision regarding the contract.” However, pressure from his allies and his record as Mayor of Greater Manchester has attracted attention, with neither the Greater Manchester Combined Authority nor Greater Manchester Police awarding contracts to Palantir during his time in office.
The NHS contract contains a break clause next year, meaning ministers will eventually have to decide whether to continue the arrangement or seek an alternative provider.
For patients and NHS staff, the debate is likely to focus less on politics and more on a simple question: whether replacing a system already embedded across much of the health service would improve care or risk disrupting it.
With the NHS continuing to face significant pressures, any future decision is likely to attract close scrutiny from both supporters and critics alike.
Main Image: For illustration purposes. Image of Andy Burnham, screen grab / X.
