University Hospitals Sussex 2026/27 Digital Workplan Highlights AI, Patient Communications, Cloud, Research

Why It Matters

Accelerating AI adoption while safeguarding patient safety positions the trust as a digital leader in the NHS, and the shift to cloud‑based, sustainable infrastructure promises cost savings, reduced emissions, and faster research collaboration.

Key Takeaways

• AI governance group formed; draft policy pending approval
• Digital letters reached 68% of patient communications in March 2026
• Brainomix platform enables 24/7 stroke decision support for ambulances
• Trust aims to move data centres to cloud by 2027
• Green plan ties digital tools to emission cuts and travel reduction

Pulse Analysis

The NHS is in the midst of a sweeping digital transformation, and University Hospitals Sussex is setting a benchmark with its 2026/27 workplan. By establishing a dedicated AI governance group and drafting a comprehensive policy, the trust is tackling the twin challenges of rapid innovation and patient safety. This structured approach mirrors a broader industry trend where health systems balance the lure of AI‑driven efficiency against the need for robust oversight, drawing lessons from early adopters to accelerate safe deployment.

Patient engagement is also evolving dramatically. The trust reported that digital letters now comprise 68% of all patient communications, surpassing traditional post for the first time. This shift not only streamlines information delivery but also reduces administrative overhead and paper waste. However, the board remains vigilant about digital exclusion, pledging alternative channels for those without internet access to ensure equitable care.

Sustainability and cloud migration round out the strategic agenda. Moving legacy data centres to a cloud environment by 2027 is expected to lower energy consumption and free up resources for clinical research, especially through the Commercial Research Delivery Centre’s digital initiatives. By embedding green criteria into procurement and system design, the trust aims to cut emissions while enhancing clinical pathways, illustrating how digital health can simultaneously drive operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.