Baroness Nicola Blackwood appointed as Chair of the new Health Data Research Service (HDRS)

Brilliant to see Baroness Nicola Blackwood appointed yesterday as Chair of the new Health Data Research Service (HDRS).

The HDRS will address the long-standing challenges of fragmented health data access by providing a single, integrated system for approved researchers and enable new insights that generate enormous value to the UK economy and patient benefit.

Baroness Blackwood’s appointment comes at a critical juncture as HDRS moves from planning to implementation. Significant progress is already being made as HDRS has been approved as a Government Company, with incorporation work now in progress, and recruitment underway for a Chief Executive Officer.

HDRS builds on NHS England’s Data for Research and Development Programme, who have been closely involved in setting up the organisation, the Secure Data Environment Network, as well as learning from successful models like the SAIL Databank in Wales and Research Data Scotland.

Nicola Blackwood Chair of the Health Data Research Service, commented:

I’m delighted that I’ve been appointed as the founding Chair of the Health Data Research Service.

For me, this is work that really matters. I’ve always believed that science, innovation and responsible access to high-quality health data are central to how we will meet the health challenges of this generation. And I know from experience that real progress only happens when we bring the whole ecosystem with us.

That’s why I’m so energised to be working with researchers, industry, the NHS, and patient and public communities from across all four nations of the UK — the people who make this possible. I know we’ve seen bold plans before and not all have delivered. So I understand that credibility has to be earned, through openness, collaboration and results.

The HDRS has huge potential: to improve patient outcomes, strengthen the health system, support growth across the UK, and accelerate the scientific discovery that underpins future innovation. I’m excited to help realise that vision.

Thank you for the warm welcome so far — I’m looking forward to the journey ahead.

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