The NHS is undoubtedly in the throes of challenging times. Reform of the entire health and social care system, along with an ever-increasing ageing population and greater demands to deliver results on stricter budgets, has placed enormous pressure on services and staff. And yet the NHS is still regarded as the country's most valuable asset. Although there have been well publicised failings in the system, as illustrated by Robert Francis, it is important to concentrate on how all those working within the NHS can actively promote better quality of care and put the patient back at the heart of the work they do.

NHS Quality of Care: putting the patient at the heart of healthcare will focus on 'how' these fundamental changes can be made. Experts in delivering high-quality care will address the audience on the principles of bringing about positive change within the NHS. We will explore how a digital NHS can improve quality of care by improving communication, reducing error and freeing up time for health workers to spend caring for patients. Excellent care that already exists in the healthcare system, both in the UK and in Europe, will be showcased as examples of best practice.