A major independent evaluation led by researchers at The University of Edinburgh has highlighted the transformative impact of the NHS Artificial Intelligence (AI) Lab, and identified key lessons to guide the future of AI in health and care. The evaluation, led by Usher’s Kathrin Cresswell, Professor of Digital Innovations in Health and Care, brought together an interdisciplinary team from The University of Edinburgh. The team drew on wide-ranging expertise across public health, social science, informatics and business disciplines. Delivery of the evaluation was supported by NHS Arden & GEM Commissioning Support Unit, whose health economics team contributed analysis on value for money and system-level impact.Launched in 2019 with £170m in funding from the Department of Health and Social Care, the NHS AI Lab was designed to accelerate the safe and effective use of AI technologies across the health and care system. Over five years, the Lab has supported a wide range of AI innovations, contributing to infrastructure, policy, and real-world deployment across the NHS.The evaluation – conducted between March and December 2024 – used a mixed-methods approach including document review, interviews, site observations, and impact analysis. Key findings include:Significant progress and learning: The NHS AI Lab has helped to advance AI development and scaling in healthcare, generating valuable insights and lessons that can help to shape future AI strategies for the NHS.Return on investment: Early evidence indicates promising financial and patient care benefits, with health economics approaches demonstrating AI-driven technologies yielding substantial cost savings and improved health outcomes for some technologies supported by the NHS AI Lab. There is also early evidence of returns on investment for taxpayers.Challenges in scaling and adoption: The report identifies barriers to widespread AI implementation and adoption, including procurement processes, integration with existing infrastructures and processes and the need for stronger alignment with NHS system needs.Long-term impact: While some benefits are already evident, the full value of the NHS AI Lab’s work is expected to unfold over longer timeframes, requiring continued monitoring of emerging benefits and adoption processes. The NHS AI Lab has been instrumental in positioning the UK at the forefront of delivering system-based change to promote AI-driven healthcare. This evaluation provides real-world empirical evidence and learning that can help to shape future efforts in the UK and internationally. Professor Kathrin Cresswell Lead researcher for the NHS AI Lab Evaluation The report also calls for stronger collaboration between developers, decision-makers, and frontline healthcare professionals, alongside evidence-led strategies to support effective AI adoption.The evaluation will inform the next phase of NHS AI strategy and offers valuable insights for wider public sector innovation programmes.Further informationRead the full NHS AI Lab Evaluation report | Usher InstituteLearn more about the NHS AI Lab | NHS England Publication date 05 May, 2025
