The A&E demand forecasting tool is already in use by 50 NHS organisations - helping them plan how many people are likely to need emergency care and treatment on any given day.
The tool is constantly being trained on seasonal health data, so it will help to spot surges in demand for health services before they happen, giving hospitals the opportunity to put staff in the right place at the right time.
The tool uses this data to highlight regular pinch points where demand is likely to be higher across the course of the year. That includes a wide range of areas, from Met Office temperature forecasts and hospital admissions through to which days of the week are busier than others. This data then produces forecasts for the coming days and weeks which hospitals can use to more effectively manage resources.
It forms part of the Prime Minister's AI Exemplars programme – putting AI to use to improve public services and modernise outdated systems.
Technology secretary, Liz Kendall, said: ‘AI is already improving healthcare by speeding up diagnosis and unlocking new treatments. Now we are going a step further.
‘By helping to predict demand, this AI forecasting tool is getting patients the care they need faster while supporting our incredible NHS staff. That means easing pressure by ensuring the NHS is at the forefront of the latest technology during the busiest time of year.'
Health innovation minister, Dr Zubir Ahmed, said: ‘The AI revolution is here and we are arming our NHS staff with the latest technology to help slash A&E waits for patients this busy winter period.
‘Innovations like these will help hospitals manage winter pressure and prioritise resources over the coming months as we continue to battle a tidal wave of flu.'
The government says early feedback from staff has been positive. Hospital managers have praised its impact in supporting them to make better decisions about staffing and capacity, meaning patients can then move through the system more efficiently.
Local NHS organisations using the tool include Coventry and Warwickshire ICB, as well as Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes ICB.
