A new artificial intelligence system is being introduced to revolutionise patient safety across the NHS, aiming to detect care issues early and prevent serious harm. The innovative tool, the first of its kind globally, will scan NHS data in near real-time to identify risks and trigger faster inspections – part of a broader move to digitise the health service under the government's 10-Year Health Plan.

The rollout begins this November, starting with a maternity care monitoring system that will flag unusual rates of stillbirth, neonatal death and brain injury across NHS trusts. This data-driven approach will enable healthcare regulators like the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to act swiftly when patterns of concern emerge, such as unexpected injuries or rising mortality rates.

The initiative supports a wider government effort to reform health and social care regulation, ensuring better outcomes for patients and faster responses to poor performance. It also marks a significant step in using technology to ease pressure on NHS staff by reducing paperwork and supporting faster, evidence-based decision-making.

Health leaders say the system will transform how safety is managed, offering earlier interventions and reducing the chances of avoidable harm. The CQC is also updating its inspection process to align with this digital shift, making assessments more responsive and transparent for both care providers and the public.