The UK's National Health Service (NHS) has come under scrutiny after granting contractors from Palantir Technologies unlimited access to identifiable patient data on its Federated Data Platform (FDP), according to a report by the Financial Times. This move, which aims to improve healthcare services through AI integration, has raised significant concerns among MPs and privacy advocates about data security and public trust.
Key Takeaways
The UK's National Health Service (NHS) has granted Palantir contractors unlimited access to identifiable patient data on its Federated Data Platform (FDP), raising concerns about data privacy and security. MPs warn this move is dangerous, while NHS England maintains strict policies are in place. The contract, valued at £330 million, has faced opposition due to Palantir's defense ties and public distrust.
- NHS grants Palantir contractors unlimited access to identifiable patient data
- MPs call the decision 'dangerous' and raise concerns about data privacy
- NHS England insists on strict policies and regular audits for data access
- Public polling shows high levels of concern over Palantir's role in healthcare
The FDP is designed to integrate scattered health datasets and bring efficiencies to medical treatment. However, critics argue that allowing Palantir staff access to patient data before it is pseudonymised poses a risk of loss of public confidence. NHS England has stated that external consultants requiring data access must have government security clearance and that strict policies are in place for managing access to patient data.
Palantir, known for its work with defense agencies including the U.S. Department of Defense, was awarded a £330 million contract in 2023 to help build the FDP. The company maintains that it acts as a 'data processor' and not a 'data controller,' meaning its software can only be used to process data precisely in line with customer instructions. Palantir has also secured contracts with Britain's Defence Ministry and Financial Conduct Authority, deals that have drawn scrutiny due to its work with U.S. government defense agencies.
MPs and privacy advocates have expressed strong opposition to the deal, citing concerns about the security of patient records and the potential for data misuse. The Patients Association has called for transparency and clear boundaries around access to patient data, while MPs like Rachael Maskell have urged the government to halt the project. Public polling shows that more than two-thirds of the UK public are concerned about Palantir's growing number of public contracts, with 40% distrusting the company to not access NHS patient data.
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