AQW 21422/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 28/01/2025
Answered On Date: 12/02/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 20405/22-27, to detail when he expects the (i) trial period to end at Antrim Area Hospital; and (ii) formal evaluation to be concluded.

Answer:

Following intensive preparation and shadow testing, the trial of an AI tool to improve the detection of fractures went live on 20 January 2025 and its scope includes the Emergency Departments at the Antrim and Causeway Hospitals as well as Minor Injury Units across the Northern Trust area. The trial period will run until 20 March 2025.

Formal audit and evaluation of the trial will commence at the mid-point of the trial period and will run simultaneously to conclude on 20 March 2025 in line with the trial end period. This is aimed at ensuring timely decision making and seamless continuation and roll out across the region.