The NHS is increasingly using AI to support its prediction metrics in Accident and Emergency departments to better accommodate it’s busiest periods.

The A&E demand forecasting tool is already being used by 50 NHS organisations, helping them plan how many people are likely to need emergency care and treatment on any given day.

The tool helps NHS staff with smarter planning for shifts and bed space in the long-term, reducing last-minute pressure thanks to clearer forecasts which spot potential bottlenecks. For patients, it will ultimately mean shorter waiting times during busy periods – ensuring people get the care they need more quickly.

This winter has already seen record fly cases putting additional pressure on emergency departments, while the Christmas period typically adds to this pressure with festive challenges like icy falls and other seasonal illnesses.

With the tool being constantly trained on seasonal health data, it will help to spot surges in demand for health services before they happen – giving hospitals the opportunity to put staff in the right place at the right time.

The tool uses this data to highlight regular pinch points where demand is likely to be higher across the course of the year.

That includes a wide range of areas, from Met Office temperature forecasts and hospital admissions through to which days of the week are busier than others. This data then produces forecasts for the coming days and weeks which hospitals can use to more effectively manage resources.

“AI is already improving healthcare by speeding up diagnosis and unlocking new treatments. Now we are going a step further,” technology secretary Liz Kendall said.

“By helping to predict demand, this AI forecasting tool is getting patients the care they need faster while supporting our incredible NHS staff.

“That means easing pressure by ensuring the NHS is at the forefront of the latest technology during the busiest time of year.”

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Early feedback from staff has been positive. Hospital managers have praised its impact in supporting them to make better decisions about staffing and capacity, meaning patients can then move through the system more efficiently.

Local NHS organisations using the tool include NHS Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board, as well as NHS Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board.

“The AI revolution is here and we are arming our NHS staff with the latest technology to help slash A&E waits for patients this busy winter period,” health innovation minister Dr Zubir Ahmed said.

“Innovations like these will help hospitals manage winter pressure and prioritise resources over the coming months as we continue to battle a tidal wave of flu.

“This is part of our 10 Year Health Plan to shift healthcare from analogue to digital as we build an NHS that is fit for the future.”