TPG Acquires Optum UK, Raising NHS Data Concerns

TPG, a US private equity firm, has taken control of NHS patient records by acquiring Optum UK, the healthcare technology business responsible for the electronic patient record system used by most GP practices in England, for about $400 million (£300 million). This acquisition has raised alarms among doctors, campaigners, MPs, and human rights groups, who express concerns over the transfer of sensitive health data to private companies without adequate public scrutiny.

TPG purchased Optum UK from UnitedHealth Group, which includes EMIS, a significant provider of primary care technology used by over half of GP practices in England. Critics, including Helen Morgan, the Liberal Democrats’ health spokesperson, argue that such deals are approved without sufficient oversight, jeopardizing patient data.

Concerns have also been raised regarding TPG's track record in Africa, where hospitals linked to the firm have been accused of imposing excessive medical bills on patients. A TPG spokesperson disputed these allegations, stating their investments have improved healthcare quality and patient rights.