The UK government has announced a £30 million investment in innovative medical technology (medtech) to alleviate pressure on the National Health Service (NHS) this winter. The funding will support the expansion of 3D checks that expedite cancer tests and the implementation of logistics solutions such as drone usage.
Each region in England will have access to the investment, with Integrated Care Systems (ICSs) able to bid for funding to invest in the latest technology that can reduce waiting lists, accelerate diagnoses, and deliver new and improved patient treatments.
ICSs may use the funding to expand virtual wards, enabling more patients to receive care at home and freeing up hospital beds. The NHS has already created over 9,800 virtual ward beds and is on track to meet its target of 10,000 beds before winter.
Another potential use of the funding is the investment in wearable medical devices for patients to use at home, aiding the diagnosis and management of numerous chronic conditions. These devices monitor vital signs such as blood oxygen levels, heartbeat, and blood pressure. Alternatively, ICSs may choose to invest in digital 3D and other imaging technology to enhance diagnostic tests, assisting in the early detection and treatment of cancer and other serious illnesses.
Health and Social Care Secretary, Steve Barclay, stressed the importance of providing clinicians with access to the latest technology, which saves staff time, delivers high-quality care, and helps reduce waiting lists. The investment aims to support patients and alleviate pressure on hospitals during the winter season.
The NHS interim National Director of Transformation, Dr Vin Diwakar, highlighted the NHS’s ability to adopt new technology and improve patient care through the rollout of virtual wards. The additional funding will allow the health service to adopt further innovations that enhance patient care and reduce pressure on wider services.
Integrated care systems, local NHS areas, can now submit bids to the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England to access the funds and implement the technology.
Earlier this year, the government published its medical technology strategy to ensure patients can access safe, effective, and innovative technology through the NHS. In addition, the government has invested £21 million in an artificial intelligence (AI) diagnostics fund to improve access to AI technology for quicker diagnosis and treatment. The fund supports the rollout of AI imaging and decision support tools to diagnose conditions like cancer, stroke, and heart conditions.
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