Insights from Andy Hardy, CEO of UHCW

Andy Hardy, the chief executive of University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW), has been at the forefront of a significant transformation initiative during his 15 years in leadership. This includes the rollout of the trust’s electronic patient record (EPR) system.

With a 30-year career in the NHS, starting as a trainee accountant and advancing to chief executive, Hardy shared his thoughts on the NHS’s digital future ahead of the Digital Health Summer Schools 2025.

Funding Challenges in Digital Transformation

In a recent NHS provider survey, 81% of trust leaders indicated that funding for digital transformation is inadequate. Hardy commented:

• “It’s easy to claim there’s not enough funding for transformation, but it’s about prioritizing what we have.”
• “With a budget of £180 billion, transformation often takes a backseat due to current pressures.”
• “Digital transformation involves both technology and the people needed to implement it.”

UHCW’s Digital Aspirations

Hardy emphasized UHCW’s commitment to being data-driven and operationally efficient:

• “We aim to leverage digital technologies and data to enhance patient care.”
• “There are numerous products available that can significantly impact the health service.”

AI in Healthcare

Hardy expressed enthusiasm about the potential of AI in healthcare:

• “We are at the early stages of integrating AI, particularly with ambient script technology.”
• “This technology could greatly enhance productivity and quality, especially in outpatient settings.”

Implementation Challenges of EPR

UHCW faced an eight-month delay in launching its EPR system, which went live on June 15, 2024. Hardy explained:

• “We postponed the launch to ensure adequate training and understanding of the system.”
• “Despite some initial productivity challenges, clinicians are already benefiting from having all information centralized.”

AI and Process Mining Initiatives

UHCW is collaborating with Celonis to explore AI for process mining:

• “We are examining various areas, including theatres and outpatient services.”
• “Process mining helps identify variations in processes, allowing us to standardize and reduce waste.”

Expansion of Virtual Wards

Hardy confirmed ongoing efforts to expand virtual wards:

• “We integrated community services last July, enhancing our virtual care capabilities.”
• “We continuously assess what can be managed virtually to minimize hospital visits.”

Future of Digital in the NHS

Looking ahead, Hardy hopes for a clear recognition of the transformative potential of technology in the NHS:

• “We need to address how technology is funded and ensure connectivity across services.”
• “It’s surprising that in 2025, we still lack comprehensive access to patient records across partners.”

Call for a Single Patient Record

Hardy expressed frustration over the absence of a unified patient record:

• “The technology exists; we need to overcome barriers like GDPR that hinder data sharing.”
• “We must focus on using data to better serve the population.”

Upcoming Presentation at Summer Schools

At the Digital Health Summer Schools 2025, Hardy will discuss the potential of digital and data to reshape the health service. The event will take place on July 17-18 at the University of Warwick, featuring various sponsors and speakers from the digital health sector.