Digital pathology and artificial intelligence (AI) have rapidly become key priorities in the health agenda, with the National Cancer Plan in England and wider UK-wide NHS policy signalling a clear shift from analogue to digital diagnostics.
The College is working to represent members effectively in this changing landscape, and to ensure that developments are reflected in the implementation of our workforce strategy. We are currently engaging in a range of workstreams for digital pathology and AI.
Digital pathology services and AI – opportunity to have your say
To enable the College to confidently advocate on behalf of the profession, we are seeking up‑to‑date, evidence-based picture of how digital pathology and AI are being used across services in 2026. We are undertaking a short member consultation to help us to understand:
- how members currently use and perceive digital pathology and AI
- barriers to adoption, including infrastructure, training and governance
- service readiness for further digital transformation
- real-world examples where digital tools have supported productivity, flexibility or capacity
Your insights will directly inform a refreshed College position statement – one that reflects strengthens our workforce and policy advocacy. With government increasingly focused on productivity and innovation rather than large-scale workforce expansion, robust evidence and examples from our members are essential.
We know this is a busy time, and we greatly appreciate every response. Even brief input will help us present a strong, credible voice. This RCPath consultation will remain open for a few weeks.
Provide your feedback here:
RCPath digital pathology & AI consultation
Regulation of AI in healthcare
On 18 February 2026, the College took part in a clinical engagement session with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) to help inform the work of the National Commission on the Regulation of AI in Healthcare. This follows our written submission to the National Commission’s call for evidence on 2 February 2026.
We were represented by College Fellows Professor Darren Treanor, Dr Laszlo Igali, and Dr Edmund Wilkes, with support from our Workforce and Engagement team.
The MHRA is now seeking insights from the wider pathology community to shape its thematic analysis and final recommendations, expected this summer.
If you wish to share your views on the regulation of AI in healthcare directly with the MHRA, please complete their short engagement survey by Monday 9 March 2026.
The survey is seeking views on:
- What proof is needed to show AI improves safety and quality without adding new risks?
- How should AI support (not override) clinical judgement, especially when AI reccomendations differ?
- How might AI affect patient trust, communication, and shared decisions?
- How do workforce pressures and unclear liability shape AI adoption, and who should liability sit if harm occurs?
- What does strong organisational and clinical AI governance look like?
- What should a safe and effective Quality Management System for AI include?
If you have any questions please contact [email protected]
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