The Changing Landscape Of The Health Data Space
The have been some marked changes affecting data and compliance, with evolving data protection standards and improved guidance on managing health data. But what are some of the notable changes and how are we navigating them?
Major Developments: Changes to the European Health Data Space (EHDS)
The European Health Data Space (EDHS) is a health-specific system which provides standards, rules and a governance framework for use of electronic health data in the EU. In March 2025, regulation updates aimed to improve the use of healthcare data in ways that could benefit society. The regulation changes create new opportunities for research by providing a transparent system for accessing health data. If reciprocal access relationships are formed with the UK, access to secondary patient health data could be vital to informing research at Mr Doctor.
The Data (Use and Access) Act 2025
In June 2025 the Data (Use and Access) Bill amended the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), the Data Protection Act 2018 and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR). These changes largely help promote innovation and economic growth, making things easier for organizations whilst still protecting people’s rights. As a UK-based company, we at Mr Doctor will be reviewing these changes as they are implemented over the next year to ensure we remain compliant.
Data Protection and AI - The Impacts of Opinion 28/2024 and the EU AI Act
Opinion 28/2024 and the EU AI Act mark the beginnings of change, indicating that GDPRs broader scope is likely to extend to AI applications and shape the way these systems can process data. The EU AI Act lays out the first comprehensive AI law, ensuring that AI usage is transparent and protects people from harm. Meanwhile, the 28/2024 Opinion flags the difficulties with anonymity in AI systems and what can be defined as ‘legitimate interest’ when justifying AI data processing. Although we are excited by the opportunities AI provides, we at Mr Doctor aim to ensure the ways we use this technology aligns with our ethical commitments, utilising guidance from the MRS to help us make sound decisions.
