NHS chiefs respond to Network chairs’ letter on organisation changes

The CEO and director of transformation of NHS England and Improvement have responded to a letter written by the chairs of the Digital Health Networks on the proposed NHS IT organisation changes.

Lisa Emery (CIO Network chair), Sarah Hanbridge (CNIO Network chair) and James Reed (CCIO Network chair), penned a letter to Amanda Pritchard (CEO) and Dr Timothy Ferris (director of transformation) following the publication of the Wade-Gery Review which led to the decision that NHSX and NHS Digital would become the Transformation and CIO Directorates of NHS England respectively.

The chairs urged for digital momentum not to be lost during these proposed changes. They also offered their assistance to ensure that “focus on digital transformation” across the NHS is maintained following the merger.

In response, Pritchard and Dr Ferris said they were “delighted to hear” that the Networks had a positive relationship with NHSX and NHS Digital.

The joint letter added: “The role you and your network members have played has been invaluable and has strengthened our shared work.

“It is essential that this cooperation continues as the health and care system faces the next phase – using technology to deliver for patients while recovering services, addressing backlogs, addressing health inequalities, and supporting staff.”

In their original letter, the Network chairs also emphasised “that the leadership of the digital agenda should be mandated at Board level – at the centre, regionally and locally”.

In response, Pritchard’s and Dr Ferris’ letter states they have “been embedding digital into how ICSs are developed”.

It adds: “This is an exciting time, where we are capitalising on the progress made by you and your colleagues over the past 18 months.

“CIOs, CNIOs, CCIOs are absolutely critical to delivering this vision and we are grateful for your continued partnership and support.”