Agenda

Attendees

1. Introductions

The Chair welcomed members to the meeting. Previous meeting minutes were reviewed, with a query raised about the correct terminology for a new DHSC entity. It was confirmed that “Government Company” (GovCo) is the appropriate legal term. The secretariat agreed to verify this before publishing the minutes. No declarations of interest were noted.

2. Ways of working refresher

A refresher on the panel’s ways of working was presented, reiterating the principles of trust, respect, confidentiality, and the Nolan Principles. Everyone was reminded to use the dedicated health data voices inbox for all queries to ensure timely responses.

3. AI in triage and navigation – public engagement

NHS England presented on national guidance being developed for the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in NHS triage and navigation services. The presentation covered the purpose of the guidance, the types of AI tools currently in use, and the intended benefits, including improved efficiency, more accurate triage, and better patient navigation. It was noted that the guidance will include a dedicated section on patient considerations, informed directly by feedback from engagement sessions such as this panel.

Panel feedback highlighted:

• Consideration needs to be given to the different demographics where technology adoption is difficult and alternatives must remain available
• The environmental impact of AI and the importance of accessible design for people with complex needs were noted
• Public trust is essential; clear communications should draw on lessons from other sectors where new technology has been publicly introduced
• Co-production with local communities, particularly hard-to-reach and underserved groups, is needed, alongside better data on those excluded from digital access
• Supplier due diligence, including user testing and regular updates, was recommended
• All documentation should be accessible and inclusive, with translation support where needed.

NHS England welcomed the panel’s input and committed to incorporating this feedback into the guidance, particularly regarding patient involvement and accessibility.

4. EASY system demonstration

NHS England provided guidance and a walkthrough of the EASY system, used by panel members to submit payment claims. Key points covered included how to register and log in and how to submit, save, track, and withdraw claims, as well as deadlines.

Several technical queries were raised, these were addressed during the session, with further individual follow-up offered. Members with ongoing technical issues were directed to: contacthrandod@england.nhs.uk.

5. Any other business

• Questions were raised about submitting claims for historical sessions. These were noted for follow-up by the support team.
• Guidance documents and the session recording were confirmed to be shared with all attendees following the meeting.