NHS electronic patient record provider sold to US private equity firm

US private equity firm TPG has acquired Optum UK for approximately £300 million, granting the company control over the healthcare technology business behind the electronic patient record (EPR) system used by the majority of English GP practices. The deal, which involves the medical records for over half the country, has prompted criticism from doctors, campaigners, MPs, and human rights groups over a lack of public scrutiny and government oversight.

Critics, including representatives from the Doctors' Association UK and health policy experts, raised concerns about handing sensitive NHS data infrastructure to a private equity company focused on investor returns. According to the report, TPG has a controversial international healthcare track record, raising questions about the safeguards in place to protect patient data, particularly in the event of a future resale.

A spokesperson for TPG rejected the allegations, however, denying that the company prioritises profits over care. TPG stated it has made substantial investments in its healthcare assets, resulting in significant improvements in quality, accessibility, patient rights, and clinical governance.

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