World's first patient to undergo live AI-assisted brain surgery has tumour removed; BBC, August 26, 2026

 Smitha Mundasad, BBC; World's first patient to undergo live AI-assisted brain surgery has tumour removed

"The world's first patient to have brain surgery with live artificial intelligence assistance has successfully had his tumour removed.

Rhys Hibbert, a father-of-two from Bedfordshire, could have lost his sight without the operation, said surgeons at University College London Hospital.

The AI tool analysed a video feed of the operation as it happened and advised surgeons on how to avoid crucial but hidden vessels and nerves in the brain. It allowed them to safely remove as much of the tumour as possible.

"From a patient safety perspective, I can see absolutely the benefit. There are no road signs inside our head," said Hibbert."

NHS app to use AI to determine which service best for patients; BBC, July 5, 2026

 Emily Atkinson, BBC; NHS app to use AI to determine which service best for patients

"Artificial intelligence software will be used on the NHS app to determine which service is most appropriate for patients in England, the health service has announced.

A new triage tool will ask patients a series of questions, and will use the responses to direct them to a GP appointment, pharmacy, A&E, community service or offer self-care advice.

NHS England said the update would reach more than 200,000 patients in the next 12 months and be available to all app users by April 2028 as part of a "major overhaul" of its technology. 

The rollout has been largely welcomed, but some health bodies urged the NHS to prioritise patient safety, confidentiality and inclusion as it grows more reliant on AI.

According to NHS England, the triage tool will provide advice and suggest services or book appointments. Part of its aim is to reduce waiting on the phone when GP surgeries typically open their lines at 08:00."