Scotland is experiencing substantial health disparities, where certain populations are more prone to poor health outcomes compared to others. This problem is influenced by a broad range of factors, including access to healthcare services, socio-economic status, genetics, and lifestyle. Currently, there is a well-documented health inequality gap, with individuals living in the most deprived areas having a life expectancy that is on average 8 years lower than those living in the least deprived areas (Scottish Government, 2022). In order to tackle this issue, a multi-faceted approach that leverages technology and data is required. In this article summary, I will delve into the key findings of our IET policy roundtable in Scotland on health inequalities and digital solutions, focusing on three crucial themes: data sets and data utilisation, data transparency, and collaboration on patient data.

1. Data Sets and Use of Data

Data has the potential to significantly impact health outcomes and reduce health inequalities. By providing insights into the root causes of poor health outcomes, data can inform the development of effective solutions and inform policy decisions. However, the use of data in healthcare also presents significant challenges, particularly in the areas of data collection, use, and access.

To address these challenges, the FAIR principles of data use are increasingly being recognised as an important tool for ensuring responsible and ethical data practices. These principles, which stand for Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable, ensure that data is collected, stored, and shared in a manner that is secure, transparent, and enables researchers and policymakers to use it effectively.

The Scottish government is currently developing a National Care Service, which aims to provide a comprehensive and integrated care system for patients in Scotland. Given the critical role that data will play in the success of the National Care Service, the panel agreed that it is essential for the Scottish government to adopt the FAIR principles of data use in its development. By doing so, the government can ensure that the data collected is used in a responsible and ethical manner, while also ensuring that patients have control over how their data is used.

2. Transparency of Data

Transparency and accessibility of patient data play a crucial role in the advancement of healthcare services that are both effective and efficient. The NHS, according to the IET, has a responsibility to provide patients with accurate and easily accessible information regarding their health. However, the perception that the NHS operates as a gatekeeper of information, keeping data from patients, can harm trust between the institution and patients.

Patients must be given the right to access their health data and should receive it in a format that is easy to understand and promptly provided. Enhancing transparency in the sharing of health information not only encourages patients to take a more proactive role in managing their own health, but it also helps foster trust between patients and the NHS.

The Scottish government must collaborate with the NHS to establish a framework that ensures patients have access to their health data and that this data is shared in a transparent and accountable manner. This framework should prioritise the needs of patients and take into consideration the significance of maintaining data privacy and security.

3. Working Collaboratively on Patient Data

Collaboration among healthcare professionals who have access to data can help ensure that patients receive all the data they need in a timely and easily accessible manner. It is also important to acknowledge that patients may encounter difficulties in accessing their data centrally or that the data may not be readily accessible even if they know where to look for it.

Healthcare professionals such as clinicians and pharmacists play a critical role in ensuring that patients have access to the data, they need to manage their health. By working together in a collaborative way, they can provide the best possible care to patients and use the data to improve healthcare services. To achieve this, the Scottish government should promote collaboration in the handling of patient data within the NHS and provide the necessary resources and support for its success.

4. Recommendations

In light of these key findings, we presented the following key recommendations to the Scottish government:

• Adopt the FAIR principles of data use in the development of the National Care Service to ensure that data is collected, stored, and shared in an ethical, secure, and effective way.
• Develop a framework for the NHS that ensures patients have access to their own health data, and that it is shared in a transparent and accountable manner.
• Encourage a collaborative approach to patient data within the NHS, bringing together healthcare professionals such as clinicians, pharmacists, and others to ensure that patients receive the best possible care and that data is used effectively.
• Provide the resources and support needed to ensure the success of the collaborative approach to patient data within the NHS.
• Invest in technology and digital solutions to address health inequalities and support improved health outcomes, such as telemedicine and digital health records.
• Work with relevant stakeholders, including patients, healthcare professionals, and the technology sector, to identify and address the challenges associated with the use of data and digital solutions in healthcare.
• Continuously evaluate and improve the use of data and digital solutions in healthcare to ensure that they are supporting improved health outcomes and reducing health inequalities.

5. What are your thoughts on

• Data Sets and Use of Data - What are your thoughts on the implementation of the FAIR principles in the development of the National Care Service? How can the government ensure that patients have control over how their data is used?
• Transparency of Data - How can the government and the NHS work together to create such a framework? What challenges might they face in implementing this framework, and how can they overcome these challenges?
• Working Collaboratively on Patient Data - What are your thoughts on the role of healthcare professionals in ensuring patients have access to their data? How can the government effectively promote collaboration within the NHS?

I would like to invite you all to share your insights, experiences, and suggestions on the role of government in leveraging health data to address health inequalities in Scotland. Your input is invaluable for driving meaningful policy changes and improving healthcare outcomes for all.