NHS Launches Proposals To Fast Track MedTech Developments

Although there is lots of innovative technology available these days, it can often take a long time before it is implemented in the NHS. This is why NICE, together with NHS England, have launched proposals to fast-track funding for these innovations, which could provide a big boost to the service. 

Patients, clinicians, and academics are being invited to leave feedback on the proposals as part of a consultation, which will run for 12 weeks. 

Mark Chapman, director of the Health Technologies Programme at NICE, said medical technology, such as online radiology reporting, is developing so quickly that products need to be adopted at a faster rate by the NHS to be able to provide the best care. 

“This new pathway aims to ensure that patients in every area of the country can benefit from the best products, devices, digital technologies, or a diagnostic innovation,” he stated.

Automated funding means there would be routine commissioning for products as long as they meet certain criteria, which will provide MedTech developers with certainty they will receive NHS funding for their innovations. 

The consultation is expected to close at midnight on Thursday August 15th, with Dr Vin Diwakar, interim medical director for transformation at NHS England, saying it is hoped both the public and those in the industry will provide feedback to develop the MedTech pathway. 

This, he comments, will ensure the outcome will benefit patients in the best way possible.

NHS England recently announced an investment of £1 million to improve access to patient data across seven trusts. 

The Wireless Trials programme is intended to provide a secure and fast solution to network accessibility and connectivity. This will mean clinicians can see data much more quickly and they will not have to do as many administrative tasks that take away time with their patients.