Microsoft 365 Copilot rolls out to 505,000 NHS staff, saves 43 min/day

NHS England has announced a massive rollout of Microsoft 365 Copilot to 505,000 clinicians and support staff across the health service, with completion expected by October 2026. The decision follows the largest AI trial in healthcare globally, involving over 30,000 NHS workers across 90 organizations. Results showed the AI assistant saved staff an average of 43 minutes per day—equivalent to roughly five working weeks annually. Rob Thompson, chief digital officer at NHS England, said the tool could save around two days of admin time per month, calling it a 'gamechanger' for patients. Each NHS trust will receive a central allocation of licenses, typically starting at around 2,000 Copilot licenses based on headcount.

Copilot will support a range of administrative tasks, including drafting letters, analyzing service data, managing rotas and beds, assisting with patient discharge processes, and creating meeting minutes and standardized templates. The tool also aids medical secretaries and supports registrar training. Darren Hardman, CEO of Microsoft UK and Ireland, emphasized that bringing AI safely into healthcare workflows will ease pressures and improve decision-making. In a related move, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust expanded its AI deployment in March 2026, including Dragon Copilot ambient voice technology and 1,500 Copilot licenses. The initiative aligns with the NHS's 10-year health plan to reduce waiting times and boost productivity.