NHS & UK Space Agency launch programme for high-tech innovators
A joint initiative between the UK Space Agency and the NHS will see £4 million being used to find high-tech solutions for the major health problems facing the organisation.
Announced as part of the 70th anniversary of the NHS, the initiative seeks innovators who can turn technology originally designed for space into medical applications that improve treatment and care.
The major challenges to the NHS, outlined by NHS England’s chief executive Simon Stevens in a speech in June, are managing long-term conditions, earlier diagnosis of cancer, transforming GP services and other primary care, and meeting mental health needs.
Applicants who believe they have a solution to improve NHS medical care using space tech can bid for a stake in the £4 million. Up to four applications will receive funding from the UK Space Agency to develop their ideas along with support and advice from the body, NHS England and the European Space Agency.
Previous examples of space tech being adapted for NHS use include a pill camera that can be swallowed by patients, dementia tracking slippers, breast screening vans that beam images back to assessment centres, wearable monitors to help prevent falls among the elderly and apps that help prevent skin cancer.
Professor Tony Young, NHS England’s national clinical director for innovation, said: “Throughout its 70-year history the NHS has been at the forefront of healthcare innovation. Through this competition we are seeking the latest greatest, ideas and technical solutions to help address the modern challenges facing our health and care services.”
Emily Gravestock, UK Space Agency head of applications, said: “Britain’s world-leading space sector continues to grow and support vital public services like the NHS with innovative applications. We encourage all businesses and public bodies to consider the role that satellite data can play in tackling some of the biggest challenges we face, as part of the government’s Industrial Strategy.”