FAQs Part 1: What is NHS.pycom?
The questions we get asked the most, answered in one post
What is Python?
Python is a high-level, open source, interpreted programming language known for its simplicity and readability. It's widely used in various fields like web development, data science, artificial intelligence, and more.
Why is Python used in health and care?
Because Python is open source, multi-purpose, has extensive libraries for statistics, data science, healthcare analytics and wider research. It’s also got a vibrant and helpful community meaning it’s easier to get started with an abundance of free training resources.
Python is specifically mentioned in the Goldacre Review as one of the open source tools colleagues in Health and Care should be considering using.
What is open source?
Open source software like Python, is software which is released under a permissive licence which allows for anyone to freely access, use, modify, and share the source code of the software for any purpose.
In practice, this means it is freely available to those in the NHS and beyond, without cost, and has a large user base. While Python itself is open source, you can choose whether (and are strongly encouraged) to release your own code as open source, in line with government policy such as Data Saves Lives, the NHS Service Standard and the Goldacre Review.
Why should you learn Python?
Learning Python opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities due to its versatility and extensive use in industries like web development, data analysis, machine learning, automation, and scientific computing. Its syntax is clear and easy to understand, making it an excellent language for beginners. Python, along with R, is explicitly mentioned in the Goldacre review.
Associated with govt policy documents such as Data Saves Lives, encouraging move towards open source tools.
Python (or other open source tools), is amongst the first steps to working following “RAP” (Reproducible Analytical Pipelines) - which is a standard endorsed by the Goldacre Review, Data Saves Lives and the NHS SDE Policy. This promises faster, more robust, reusable and transparent analytical processes,
Why was the NHS Python Community founded?
The NHS Python Community (aka NHS.pycom) was founded to promote collaboration, knowledge sharing, and skill development among Python enthusiasts within the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. It aims to harness the power of Python to improve healthcare services, perform research, streamline processes, and drive innovation.
Who is the Python Community Team?
We are a team of volunteers passionate about Python and committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for Python users. In the case of the NHS.pycom, it consists of healthcare professionals, programmers, and enthusiasts dedicated to leveraging Python for healthcare purposes.
I want to learn more - where should I go?
Slack channel: Join us on Slack to chat to the community or ask us your questions.
LinkedIn page: Follow our LinkedIn page to be notified about all our future events.
YouTube channel: Show and tells and event recordings
GitHub repository: Fork our repositories on GitHub and use our code.