Two researchers from Lancaster University Medical School have been advising on improved data science education for UK medical students.
The resulting report from the Medical Schools Council (MSC) together with Health Data Research UK (HDRUK) entitled "Data Science in Medical Education - Equipping medical students for the digital age" has now been issued to all UK medical schools.
Chair in Applied Data Science, Professor Jo Knight, and lecturer in Health Data Science, Dr Nicola Rennie, are both on the working group whose members were chosen for their expertise in curriculum development, data science and digital health.
The group's task was to ascertain what data science competencies medical schools should enable their medical students to achieve on their curricula. The group held regular online meetings to agree the scope of the competencies and their feasibility within curriculum constraints. Following discussions of remit, the group participated in a formal consensus voting exercise whereby a threshold of 60% voting for a core competency would result in its inclusion.
Professor Knight said: "It was great to be part of this working group. Health Data Science is a key research and teaching focus at Lancaster University, so we are one of the few medical schools to be teaching this already."
Dr Rennie said: "I'm really pleased to see this report published, which outlines the skills and competencies related to the use of data and digital technology that future doctors will require. The recommendations in this report will help medical schools deliver an education that enables future clinicians to use innovative technology effectively and safely, to improve patient care. "
The creation of the working group followed a 2023 survey of medical school staff and students which revealed widespread recognition of the importance of data science in medicine and the need for improved teaching provisions in this area.
The report outlines a comprehensive framework of data science skills and knowledge that MSC and HDR UK recommend integrating into medical school curricula to ensure all future doctors are prepared to practise medicine effectively in the 21st century. It focuses on core competencies in areas such as health informatics, AI, data governance, and the ethical, legal, and professional considerations associated with digital healthcare.
Dr Katie Petty-Saphon, CEO of the Medical Schools Council, and Professor Andrew Morris, Director of Health Data Research UK said: "By ensuring that future doctors are proficient in data science, we are not only enhancing patient care and improving healthcare outcomes but also contributing to the development of a highly skilled workforce that will drive innovation in the UK healthcare sector, reinforcing the UK's position as a global leader in healthcare innovation."
