Northern Ireland Health Minister Mike Nesbitt visited the United States from 16 to 21 March. The trip coincided with St Patrick's Day events. He held high-level meetings in Washington DC and Nashville to build healthcare partnerships.

Nesbitt met leaders in health and social care. He visited the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda. The visit marked the first by a Northern Ireland Health Minister despite a 27-year partnership linked to the Belfast Good Friday Agreement.

At the National Cancer Institute, Nesbitt received an overview of cancer research work. He noted respect shown to Professor Mark Lawler by US cancer clinicians and administrators. Cancer serves as a key focus area for his role.

Nesbitt visited Washington's Children's Hospital. He met staff and learned about advances in paediatric surgery that make procedures more precise, less invasive and less painful.

In Nashville, Nesbitt discussed digital healthcare with representatives from Belmont University and Meharry Medical College. Talks covered artificial intelligence and data analytics in patient outcomes. He stated AI supports clinicians in Northern Ireland for diagnostics and imaging to improve speed, accuracy and patient flow.

Nesbitt met the Tennessee Department of Health, the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, and Interfaith Dental. Discussions addressed access, diagnosis, treatment and patient flow.

Nesbitt described Nashville's reputation for healthcare innovation. He said Northern Ireland leads in areas like its encompass electronic patient record system. One provider called Northern Ireland's integrated health and social care structure the best globally.