Digital and data-driven
One longitudinal record with structured worklists, outcomes, surveillance and exception reporting.
Executive overview
The strategic case for integrated lung nodule management.
A digital, data-driven and virtual model of care designed to improve pathway safety, standardisation, efficiency and patient experience.
The case for change
A growing surveillance challenge requires a system-based response.
Modern imaging identifies increasing numbers of pulmonary nodules. Most are benign, but a clinically important minority require structured follow-up and timely escalation. Manual tracking and fragmented communication create recognised risks.
01
Clinical risk
Potential loss to follow-up, delayed diagnosis and inconsistent escalation.
02
Imaging burden
Risk of over- or under-imaging and avoidable radiation exposure.
03
Patient experience
Anxiety caused by unclear communication and uncertainty around follow-up.
04
Operational inefficiency
Administrative effort, duplicated investigations and poor visibility of pathway performance.
Strategic response
Standardised, virtual and governance-led.
The programme combines a digital pathway, Virtual Lung Nodule Clinic model and staged innovation roadmap.
Virtual care
Reduce unnecessary outpatient attendance while maintaining clinical review and accountability.
Future-ready
Create a governed foundation for later AI-enabled imaging support rather than introducing AI prematurely.
Intended impact
Benefits that can be evaluated through a structured pilot.
Safer surveillanceImproved safety-netting and visibility of every required action.
Earlier escalationConsistent review and timely movement into the appropriate cancer pathway.
Better experienceClearer communication and fewer unnecessary hospital visits.
Clinical efficiencyMore effective MDT working and reduced manual administration.
Resource optimisationBetter use of imaging and outpatient capacity and less duplication.
Scalable innovationA platform for carefully governed digital and AI-enabled pathway development.
Pilot evaluation framework
Track safety, clinical performance, experience and efficiency.
Patient safety
- Patients lost to follow-up
- Overdue surveillance scans
- Compliance with surveillance recommendations
Clinical performance
- CT report to MDT review time
- MDT decision to onward investigation or referral
- Compliance with BTS guidance
Patient experience
- Patient satisfaction and feedback
- Understanding of surveillance plans
- Avoided unnecessary visits
Operational performance
- Reduction in manual administration
- MDT efficiency
- Staff usability and workflow feedback
Sustainability
Designed to become part of routine clinical practice.
Once integrated within local infrastructure and governance, the platform can support day-to-day operations beyond initial funding and provide a foundation for pathway evaluation and future digital innovation.
Long-term value
Benefits are expected to continue through reduced manual processes, improved pathway visibility, reusable integration capability and a scalable model that may inform other surveillance pathways.
Evidence statement
These are intended programme benefits. Claims of achieved outcomes will only be published after structured evaluation and appropriate approval.
Clinical collaboration