NHS England is investing £6 million in developing the AI research screening platform known as AIR-SP, aimed at enhancing the deployment of AI tools in cancer screening trials. Set to launch in 2027, this cloud-based system will enable NHS staff to analyze screening images for abnormalities, expediting diagnoses of potential cancer signs. Funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), AIR-SP addresses the current limitations in integrating AI across NHS trusts, where 90% of AI tools remain in pilot phases due to fragmented IT setups. With a unified infrastructure, multiple AI tools can be tested simultaneously, significantly reducing time and costs—potentially saving £2-3 million per multi-site study. This platform will initially support nearly 700,000 women participating in breast cancer trials. Health leaders highlight that this initiative will enhance patient care by efficiently incorporating cutting-edge technology into NHS practices, ultimately leading to quicker and more effective treatment.
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