Health Data Readiness Level Framework¶
A maturity model for assessing health data systems across the UK's devolved nations
The HDRL Framework provides a scientifically derived roadmap to assess the maturity of health data systems — enabling federated UK-wide infrastructure for health data research.
What is HDRL?¶
Filling the "missing middle" in health data governance
The Health Data Readiness Level (HDRL) Assessment Framework is a comprehensive maturity model designed to evaluate the readiness of health data organisations and systems to participate in the UK Health Data Research Service (HDRS).
Developed through systematic evidence synthesis of 56 global frameworks — including WHO, OECD, FAIR, CMMI, and HIMSS — HDRL bridges the gap between abstract principles and technical specifications.
Five Safes, Alliance Principles
Organisational Readiness & Investment Roadmap
SATRE, NHS DSPT, ISO 27001
Not a pass/fail audit
HDRL is a roadmap for investment and growth. It supports planning, not accreditation. Participation decisions are made through separate governance.
The Eight Domains¶
Each domain answers a critical question about organisational readiness
Data Coverage & Federation
Do we have the data researchers want?
Domain BData Semantics & Quality
Is the data messy or ready-to-use?
Domain CGovernance & Access
How fast can we approve safe research?
Domain DResearch Integration
Are people actually using the service?
Domain EPublic Trust
Will the public let us operate?
Domain FSustainability
Can we pay the bills?
Domain GWorkforce & Culture
Do we have the people to run this?
Domain HInfrastructure & Compute
Is our tech safe and scalable?
Who is it for?¶
HDRL serves different needs for different audiences
Policy Makers
Pinpoints exactly where investment is needed — legislation vs compute vs workforce
Research Services
A clear "Licence to Operate" checklist and improvement roadmap
Industry
Guarantees that a "Level 4" partner delivers predictability and speed
Funders
Evidence-based framework for allocation decisions across the 3-year cycle
Key Features¶
Scientifically Rigorous
Synthesised from 56 global frameworks including WHO, OECD, FAIR, and CMMI
Roadmap-Based
Not a pass/fail audit — a guide for investment and growth over time
Outcome-Focused
Measures if you can deliver, not just if you have a policy document
UK-Wide
Designed for the devolved nations with cross-border considerations built in
Modular
Baseline Core, Capability modules, and Optional indicators for flexible assessment
Foundational Requirements
Five non-negotiable indicators that gate baseline participation