03.08.16
NHS England extends deadline for innovation and technology tariff
NHS England has extended the deadline for a new tariff designed to make it easier to fund innovative healthcare technology by two weeks.
The innovation and technology tariff, first announced by NHS England CEO Simon Stevens at the NHS Confederation conference in June, allows NHS England to ‘bulk buy’ innovations nationally instead of locally and guarantee automatic reimbursement when an approved innovation is used.
Developers now have until 16 August to apply for the scheme, which will be judged and administered by the NHS Innovation Accelerator Programme.
Matthew Swindells, national director for operations and information, said: “The NHS has a proud track record in medical innovation but has sometimes stumbled on getting ground-breaking and practical new technologies into the hands of NHS patients, nurses and doctors as quickly as possible.
“The new national funding route will help cut the hassle experienced by clinicians and innovators in getting uptake and spread across the NHS. At a time when the NHS is under pressure, we want to make it as easy as possible to fast track innovations that enhance patient outcomes and improve efficiency in NHS care.”
Examples of innovative technologies which could be routinely commissioned under the reforms include AliveCor, a mobile heart monitor that detects heart arrhythmias, MyCOPD, an app to self-manage Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder.
To apply for the programme, click here.
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