AQW 27857/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Health

To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 21422/22-27, to provide an update on the outcome of the formal audit and evaluation of the use of artificial intelligence to improve the detection of fractures.

Asked by Kate Nicholl MLA on 29 May 2025

  • Answered
  • Written
Tabled
29 May 2025
Answer due by
13 June 2025
Answered
12 June 202514 days after tabling
Department
Department of Health
Priority question
No

Answer

The work to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve the detection of fractures in Emergency Departments and Minor Injury Units in the Northern Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust ran for a two-month period from 20 January 2025 to 20 March 2025.

The evaluation of the pilot found that this new service model had significant potential and it was agreed that the utilisation of this Artificial Intelligence would be extended in the Northern HSC Trust for 2025/26. A process is currently underway to scope how this initiative will be rolled out across the region, enabling the remaining HSC Trusts to use AI for the detection of fractures during 2025/26.

Official sources