A new ambition: Cross-sector collaboration with the life sciences industry

The NHS must be an active participant with industry in delivering the shared objective of outstanding patient outcomes. In part that is because it is a monopoly purchaser but also because the NHS should be where innovative products are developed and tested. The NHS also offers a raft of advantages in terms of data and population health, which will be key determinants of a successful modern healthcare system.

This report shows there are plenty of excellent examples of cooperation and inspiring case studies, where the health service and some of its key suppliers have demonstrated that they can each benefit and more importantly, patients can benefit by using the skills and experience of both.

It is designed to stimulate discussion and kick off a wider conversation, initially across England but with the hope that all parts of the UK will participate in the debate together with The ABPI and our colleagues in the Academic Health Science Networks (AHSNs).

The NHS Confederation will seek to engage with its members and with industry to achieve a step change in the relationship between the health service and its suppliers, to improve patient care and public wellbeing, and to help create a sustainable health and care system.