Review of future of Dr Foster Intelligence

The future of Dr Foster Intelligence, one of the UK’s main providers of information, analysis and targeted communications to health and social care organisations, is under review, the Department of Health and Dr Foster Holdings LLP has been announced.

The review will explore strategic options for the future of Dr Foster Intelligence. This follows the recent White Paper 'Equity and Excellence: Liberating the NHS', which stated the Government’s commitment to the introduction of an NHS information revolution, providing patients with quality information and data on all aspects of healthcare. 

Combined with the right support, the aim is to increase the use of healthcare informatics to create better care, outcomes and reduced costs. The review will ensure that Dr Foster Intelligence is best placed to meet this challenge.

Dr Foster Intelligence was launched in 2006 as a joint venture between the NHS Information Centre and Dr Foster Holdings LLP. The NHS Information Centre transferred its shareholding to the Department of Health on 9 July 2010. The Department of Health owns a 48.75 per cent stake with 51.25 per cent held by Dr Foster Holdings LLP. The recent acquisition of Dr Foster Research by Dr Foster Intelligence has increased its scope and will provide opportunities for expansion in other sectors and overseas.

This review is in line with the Government’s policy to maximise the value of assets and commercial opportunities as explained in the findings of the Arm’s Length Bodies Review.

Health Minister Simon Burns said: “In the White Paper 'Equity and Excellence: Liberating the NHS', we set out a vision for an information revolution to give patients greater choice and control. We will publish our information strategy paper in the Autumn. This review will ensure that the Department of Health is making the most of Dr Foster Intelligence.”

Dr Foster Intelligence Chief Executive, Tom Moloney said: “As one of the most respected brands in the healthcare sector, Dr Foster Intelligence offers comprehensive data to health and social care organisations to help them make better decisions about their budgets and patient care.  With the increased emphasis on healthcare information in the White Paper, this is the right time to embark a review of Dr Foster Intelligence.  We will work with our partners to consider the best options for the company and the shareholders.”