image: ©Sandipkumar Patel | iStock

Almost £30 million has been committed to expanding the use of AI across the health service, with a particular focus on improving cancer detection and reducing waiting times.

The funding package includes £20 million to roll out proven AI-powered chest X-ray technology to every NHS Trust in England by 2029, alongside an additional £8.1 million to support trials of new digital healthcare innovations.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in England, making early diagnosis crucial. AI-powered chest X-ray tools are already helping radiologists identify potential abnormalities more quickly and accurately.

Currently available in around half of NHS Trusts in England, the technology acts as a virtual second pair of eyes for clinicians reviewing scans. More than four million patients have already benefited from the system, receiving either a faster diagnosis or reassurance that no cancer is present.

Early evidence suggests that AI can significantly reduce the time needed to analyse complex chest scans. Cases that previously took up to eight days to review can now be assessed in around four days, allowing patients to move through diagnostic pathways more quickly.

The technology is designed to support healthcare professionals rather than replace them. By highlighting areas of concern on scans, AI helps radiologists manage growing workloads while maintaining high standards of patient care.

The NHS performs more than seven million chest X-rays every year. As demand for diagnostic services continues to increase, AI-powered chest X-ray is expected to help clinicians prioritise urgent cases and reduce pressure on overstretched departments.

Health leaders believe the technology could help more patients begin treatment within the NHS target of 62 days following an urgent GP referral.

Alongside the nationwide rollout of chest X-ray technology, six innovative AI and digital healthcare projects will be tested across 12 NHS Trusts and one GP partnership in England and Scotland.

The projects will explore how AI can improve the analysis of CT scans, ECGs and X-rays, while also supporting digital therapies and helping clinicians identify the most urgent patients.

The research will focus on a range of conditions, including heart failure, stroke, lung infections, lung cancer and tic disorders.

If successful, these technologies could be introduced more widely throughout the NHS, helping to improve patient outcomes while increasing efficiency across healthcare services.

Medical organisations, cancer charities and health technology leaders have welcomed the funding, highlighting the potential benefits of faster diagnoses, reduced waiting times and earlier treatment.

While experts stress that trained clinicians will remain at the centre of patient care and decision-making, AI is increasingly seen as a valuable tool for improving services and supporting the NHS workforce.

With further investment and successful implementation, AI could play a significant role in transforming healthcare delivery for millions of patients in the years ahead.