NHS England to Revise Palantir Platform Data After Staff Concerns

NHS England will revise two of the most widely cited claims in its defense of the Federated Data Platform contract with Palantir, after staff and data-protection experts raised concerns, the FT reported on August 3. The contract, worth up to £330 million over seven years, has been the subject of intense scrutiny since its award in 2023.

What's Being Revised

The two claims under revision relate to the volume of NHS data flowing through the platform and the degree of staff engagement in its design. NHS England had previously cited both figures prominently. Internal documents suggest both numbers were inflated. NHS England said the revisions reflect better data, not misconduct.

"Changes to two most widely cited claims come as scrutiny grows over US tech company's contract," the FT wrote.

Why It Matters

The Palantir contract is one of the largest NHS technology procurements ever. Critics argue it concentrates too much NHS data in the hands of a single US vendor. Defenders argue the platform is essential for joining up fragmented NHS data and improving patient care. The contract has been subject to legal challenges and Information Commissioner's Office reviews.

What's Next

The revisions are likely to fuel further scrutiny from MPs and privacy campaigners. NHS England is expected to publish revised claims in the coming weeks. The Information Commissioner's Office has an open inquiry. The UK government has signaled it will defend the contract but may add additional safeguards on data usage.