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UK health in 2024: key milestones and what to expect in 2025
January 15, 2025
2024 was a year of immense transformation and challenges for the UK health sector, with significant developments shaping healthcare delivery and public health outcomes. The year also marked a major political shift with a new government promising sweeping reforms to tackle the NHS’s issues. In 2025, the convergence of technology, innovation, and policy holds the potential to redefine health outcomes for millions.
This article explores the most critical health developments in 2024 and forecasts what lies ahead this year, including advancements in telemedicine, the integration of AI in healthcare, and breakthroughs in personalised medicine.
The state of UK healthcare in 2024
Healthcare in 2024 was dominated by three key themes: NHS pressures, technological advancements, and the growing influence of environmental health. The NHS faced its most challenging winter yet, with record waiting lists, staff shortages, and industrial action by healthcare workers. However, the political shift late in the year brought a renewed focus on healthcare reform, with the new government pledging to prioritise workforce retention, expand mental health services, and invest in infrastructure.
In parallel, technological innovation played a pivotal role in addressing systemic issues. From remote patient monitoring devices to digital health platforms, technology has helped bridge gaps in care delivery, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Telemedicine: revolutionising access to care
Telemedicine continued to gain traction in 2024, with an increasing number of patients opting for virtual consultations. The rise in remote patient monitoring allowed clinicians to track chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension in real time, reducing the need for in-person visits. As demand for these services grows, experts predict telemedicine will become a mainstay of UK healthcare in 2025.
However, challenges remain. Ensuring equitable access to digital tools and addressing data security concerns are critical for wider adoption. This year, the government is expected to prioritise digital inclusion initiatives to bridge the technology gap.
The integration of AI in healthcare
One of the most talked-about innovations in 2024 was the growing use of AI in healthcare. From diagnostics to treatment planning, AI transformed how clinicians approached patient care. For example, the NHS leveraged generative AI to streamline administrative tasks, freeing up valuable time for healthcare professionals.
AI also played a key role in improving diagnostics. Algorithms capable of accurately analysing imaging data helped reduce diagnostic errors and accelerated early detection of diseases like cancer. However, the use of AI is not without controversy. Critics have highlighted concerns about bias in algorithms and the disadvantages of AI in healthcare,particularly regarding ethical dilemmas surrounding decision-making.
The government’s commitment to digital health innovation in 2025 includes plans to expand AI-driven projects across the NHS. The goal is to harness AI’s potential while addressing its limitations through robust oversight and transparency.
Personalised medicine: tailoring treatments to individuals
Another breakthrough area in 2024 was personalised medicine, which uses genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors to tailor treatments to individual patients. This approach gained significant traction, particularly in oncology, where it was found that targeted therapies may improve survival rates for certain cancers.
The development of AI-personalised medicine platforms allowed clinicians to predict treatment outcomes more accurately, while advancements in personalised medicine supply chains ensured faster therapy delivery. However, cost and logistical complexity remain significant barriers to widespread adoption.
This year, we expect further integration of personalised approaches, supported by government funding for genetic research and partnerships with biotech firms. This aligns with broader trends in healthcare towards predictive and preventive care.
Mental health and well-being: a growing focus
Mental health remained a priority in 2024, with increasing recognition of the importance of mental health tech solutions. Apps offering cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and stress management tools saw a surge in popularity. The government’s pledge to expand mental health services includes increased funding for digital therapeutics, which are set to play a larger role in 2025.
Sustainability and environmental health
The impact of climate change on health was a pressing concern in 2024. Heatwaves, air pollution, and extreme weather events underscored the urgent need for sustainable healthcare practices. The NHS made strides in reducing its carbon footprint, aligning with the new government’s commitment to environmental health. Initiatives such as energy-efficient hospitals and sustainable procurement policies will accelerate in 2025.
The role of the new government
The political shift in mid-2024 brought renewed optimism to the health sector. The new government’s health manifesto outlined ambitious goals, including reducing waiting times, expanding social care, and addressing workforce shortages. Early policy decisions, such as increased funding for primary care and commitments to mental health services, have set the tone for a more proactive approach.
However, there is also scepticism about whether these promises will translate into meaningful change.
The landscape in 2025
In 2025, the UK health sector faces new opportunities and challenges. The continued integration of technology, from digital therapeutics to AI-driven care, will undoubtedly shape the future of healthcare. However, addressing systemic health inequalities, funding gaps, and climate-related health impacts remains crucial.
The government’s actions will be closely watched. Will their promises lead to a more resilient and equitable healthcare system? Or will political and economic pressures derail progress? Regardless, the UK health sector is poised for a transformative year, with innovation, policy, and sustainability at its core.
For more insights on UK Health, visit the FINN Partners Health Sector. For further insights on AI in the NHS, read Ways NHS Uses AI to Tackle Healthcare Challenges by my colleague Nick Reynaud-Komiya.
POSTED BY: Christopher Nial
