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Understand AI

Learn about AI, the current state of play and its potential in health and care.

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Resources

A Horizon Scan of Algorithms Used in the Development of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Enabled Healthcare Technologies

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This report provides a comprehensive review of algorithms used within AI-based healthcare technologies. We have explored the use of specific algorithms used within these technologies, and provide insights regarding their use in the diagnoses, treatment, and management of specific health conditions.
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AI Barometer 2020

The CDEI has published its AI Barometer, a major analysis of the most pressing opportunities, risks, and governance challenges associated with AI and data use in the UK, initially across five sectors.
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AI in health care: what do the public and NHS staff think?

To help understand public and staff attitudes towards the use of AI in health care, the Health Foundation commissioned a survey, conducted in June and July 2024, of 7,201 nationally representative members of the public (aged 16 years and older) and 1,292 NHS staff members.
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AI Playbook for the UK Government

The playbook offers guidance on using AI safely, effectively and securely for civil servants and people working in government organisations

An Investigation into the Development of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) - Enabled Healthcare Technologies

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This report provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of AI-based healthcare technologies in development, those that have recently gained approval for use in the healthcare industry. It also provides insights into the key factors driving the development of these AI-based healthcare technologies.
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Foundation models in the public sector

Foundation models are a form of artificial intelligence (AI) designed to produce a wide variety of outputs that are being adopted across various sectors. They are capable of a range of tasks and applications, such as text, image or audio generation.
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International AI Safety Report 2025

A report on the state of advanced AI capabilities and risks written by 100 AI experts including representatives nominated by 33 countries and intergovernmental organisations. Although not specific to healthcare, the report is helpful to understand AI in a range of contexts
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NHSX AI Dictionary

A simple dictionary of common AI terms with a health and care context, with basic search and navigation.
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Understanding AI in Healthcare

12 February 2025. A video introduction to explain what AI is, its history and an introduction to how AI is being used to enhance patient experience, support clinicians, and improve efficiency.
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The role of artificial intelligence in healthcare: a structured literature review

This paper presents the findings from a literature review of 288 academic articles on AI in healthcare published 1 April 2021.

Case studies

Find out about the current state of play of data driven technologies within the health and care system and how AI can be used through a range of case studies

AI Guides by University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust

Many of us know what AI is, but may not know about the concepts behind the terminology which is becoming more frequently heard in conversations around the types of AI which are commonly deployed. A basic understanding of the principles on how each technology works can be crucial in deciding which technology you wish to utilise and the considerations and safeguards you need to put in place.

These guides are part of a developing series (of which there will be more) which introduce:

  • the fundamental concepts of AI
  • considerations when planning to utilise technologies related to each concept
  • real-world applications of each concept with AI technology

Last edited: 12 June 2025 2:51 pm