London: UK medical research has continued to achieve global recognition, but a new report has found that major scientific achievements are not reaching enough patients through improved healthcare outcomes.
The Academy of Medical Sciences (AMS) has highlighted a growing gap between scientific discovery and patient care. The report, titled ‘Measuring What Matters 2026’, has analysed health service data and Office for National Statistics records over a seven-year period. Findings have shown that the workforce linking research to clinical practice is ageing and shrinking, limiting the translation of innovation into treatment.
The UK life sciences industry has remained a major economic contributor. It has generated £146.9 billion ($186.5 billion) in turnover during 2023/24 and has employed nearly 360,000 people. Despite this, health outcomes have not kept pace with scientific progress. The report has found that challenges in translating research into healthcare improvements have continued to limit the wider benefits of medical innovation.
Data in the report has shown that healthy life expectancy has fallen to its lowest recorded level. Health inequalities have persisted across regions and communities. Economic inactivity linked to ill health has also continued to rise, adding pressure to public services and the wider economy.
Professor Sir Andrew Morris, president of the Academy of Medical Sciences, stated that, “The UK has a remarkable foundation in medical science. Our research is among the best in the world, and our life sciences industry is growing strongly. However, this excellence is not yet delivering better health outcomes for enough people, and too much potential goes unrealised between discovery and patient benefit.”
The AMS has indicated that the report will be published annually to monitor progress and highlight gaps. The findings have underscored the need to strengthen the connection between research, healthcare delivery and patient outcomes to ensure benefits reach the wider population.
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