Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust has announced a collaboration with NTT DATA to establish a Secure Data Environment (SDE).

Objectives of the Secure Data Environment

• Provide NHS leaders with essential information and insights to enhance patient and family care.
• Facilitate better management of patient journeys.
• Utilize non-clinical data to reduce waiting times and no-shows.
• Improve service design to better meet patient needs.

Project Timeline

The SDE is currently under development and is expected to be operational by late spring 2026, with features being added progressively thereafter.

Statements from Key Officials

Dr. Simon Steddon, Chief Medical Officer at Guy’s and St Thomas’, emphasized the importance of this initiative:

“This initiative is a vital step in harnessing data to improve patient care and support our clinicians. By creating a secure, integrated environment, we can gain insights that help us deliver safer, more personalized care while protecting patient privacy.”

Denis Lafitte, Chief Digital and Information Officer, noted that the SDE will enhance health data insights, contributing to better outcomes for patients in southeast London.

Technical Aspects

The platform is being developed by NTT DATA using Snowflake’s data and AI platform, in collaboration with InterWorks and experts from Guy’s and St Thomas’. Key features include:

• Data will remain in its original location, minimizing the need for copying and transmission across the health system.
• All data will be securely stored within the UK under strict controls.

Commitment to Data Security

Flann Morgan, Vice President of Healthcare at NTT DATA UK and Ireland, expressed enthusiasm for the project:

“NTT DATA is delighted to support Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in improving patient outcomes. We are committed to respecting privacy and data security while leveraging digital technologies.”

Future Developments

In a related initiative, Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust has announced plans to establish a similar SDE focused on mental health research, aimed at enhancing the understanding of mental health conditions and treatments.