Operational Research and Data Science (PenCHORD)

The Peninsula Collaboration for Health Operational Research and Data Science (PenCHORD) brings together expertise in operational research, data science and AI to model, evaluate and improve health and care services. We work with key stakeholders to identify questions that reflect the needs of services and patients, and to develop data modelling and analytical work that informs decision‑making and service optimisation. We also contribute to strengthening data science, AI and modelling capability across health and care through training, collaboration and shared learning. 

Our work covers a wide range of clinical and operational areas, including stroke care, cancer services, mental health, maternity and neonatal care, renal services, neurodegenerative conditions and surgery scheduling.

Our areas of expertise include: 

• Modelling patient pathways and the impacts of proposed changes 

• Operational planning and service optimisation, including capacity and resource planning in acute and community services, waiting list management and patient scheduling, and location and capacity analysis of outpatient services 

• Population‑wide linked health data research, including using electronic health records, and emerging regional and national data assets 

• Artificial intelligence and advanced analytics, including machine learning, predictive modelling and natural language processing 

• Open science and reproducible research, enabling methods and tools that can be reused across organisations and regions.

The PenCHORD team leads the national Health Service Modelling Associates (HSMA) Programme. The programme teaches public sector analysts, clinicians and managers how to use data science and operational research techniques, as well as supporting them to apply these techniques within their organisations. Free places on the programme are available to people working in health, social care and policing organisations in England.