Vital Signs Spring 2026

As the life sciences and healthcare sectors continue to evolve at pace, this Spring edition of Vital Signs brings together timely insights on some of the most pressing legal and regulatory developments shaping the landscape.

In this issue, we explore the growing complexity of public procurement in healthcare, where shifting policy priorities and heightened scrutiny are redefining how services are commissioned and delivered. We also examine the implications of the latest market study into private dentistry, highlighting emerging competition concerns and what they may signal for future regulatory intervention.

Collective redress remains high on the agenda, and our feature on class actions considers the increasing litigation risks facing healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and associated stakeholders in an era of greater claimant coordination and funding.

We also consider the intersection of artificial intelligence and patient data – an area of both immense opportunity and significant legal challenge. As AI-driven innovation accelerates, questions around data governance, privacy, and ethical use are becoming ever more critical.

Finally, we turn to medical device regulation in Great Britain, reflecting on the MHRA’s February 2026 consultation and what its proposals could mean for the long-term recognition of CE marking, the role of UKCA, and future routes to market for higher-risk and innovative products.

We hope this edition provides valuable perspectives to help you navigate these developments with confidence. As always, our team remains on hand to discuss any of the topics covered.