Innovative Approaches in Healthcare

Professor Hutan Ashrafian, a clinician-scientist, surgeon, and entrepreneur, has a notable history of integrating advanced technologies into healthcare. His achievements include:

• Developing an algorithm in collaboration with Google for breast cancer detection.
• Leading the implementation of this technology into clinical settings.

Ranked among the top 1% of scientists globally based on citations, Ashrafian emphasizes his focus on practical applications of digital tools rather than the allure of AI’s “sci-fi” aspects. As the Chief Medical Officer at Harbinger Health, he aims to leverage AI advancements to identify cancers in their early stages, even before symptoms appear.

Insights on NHS’s Role in Health Technology

In a recent interview ahead of his keynote at Digital Health Rewired 2026, Ashrafian shared his views on the NHS’s potential to lead in health technology:

• The UK is positioned as a potential epicenter for health technology innovation.
• The NHS holds a wealth of data that can drive the next generation of digital trials and therapeutic discoveries.
• A cohesive effort is necessary to harness these capabilities for the benefit of both UK and global societies.

Reflections on the NHS’s 10-Year Health Plan

Ashrafian expressed support for the NHS’s ambition to transition from analogue to digital systems, noting:

• The concept is promising, but the implementation process poses significant challenges.
• He has successfully introduced a breast cancer detection algorithm into the NHS, highlighting the complexities of gaining colleague buy-in and executing the implementation.
• Identifying the digital needs of the health system is crucial for future advancements.

Engagement and Innovation in Digital Health

According to Ashrafian, the future of health technology lies in:

• Creating accessible digital tools for clinical pathways and everyday environments like homes and schools.
• Focusing on user engagement, as many digital health applications face high abandonment rates.
• Recognizing the rapid pace of innovation and adapting to it effectively.

Challenges in Implementing AI in the NHS

Ashrafian pointed out that realizing AI’s potential in the NHS involves:

• Understanding the complexities of the NHS’s data infrastructure, which includes nearly 100,000 unique data flows.
• Overhauling evidence generation processes to align with the fast-paced nature of digital health.
• Ensuring that patient needs drive innovation and adoption of new technologies.

Addressing Implementation Challenges

To overcome barriers in digital health implementation, Ashrafian suggests:

• Maintaining transparency about choices and opt-out options for patients.
• Resolving technical issues related to legacy systems while promoting interoperability.
• Clarifying accountability and governance regarding data management.

Key Messages for Rewired 2026

During his keynote at Digital Health Rewired 2026, Ashrafian plans to emphasize three main points:

1. Implementation is crucial for success.
2. Patient feedback should always guide health technology development.
3. Shifting towards a pre-emptive approach to health can optimize long-term benefits.

Professor Ashrafian will present at the event scheduled for March 24-25, 2026, at The NEC in Birmingham. For more information, visit the event’s registration page.