03.03.20
WMAHSN announced as £3.2m project partner
West Midlands Academic Health Science Network have been announced as a partner of the West Mercia Rural 5G project, which was recently awarded a £3.2m funding packet by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS).
Operating in rural counties at the meeting point of Shropshire and Worcestershire, West Mercia 5G will aim to explore the infrastructure challenges when planning, building and operating a rural 5G network.
Focusing on exploring how 5G can enhance services for the benefit of local residents and spread the advantages of technology and connectivity across the country, the project is keen in incorporate benefits to the healthcare service as part of the project.
These trials allow the UK to grasp an early digital lead by using the new applications that the 5G networks will be able to support.
Working with the NHS, councils and academic partners in the region, WMAHSN will work to develop ways for 5G to transform health and social care in the region and provide expert knowledge support across the project.
Tony Davis, WMAHSN Director of Innovation and Economic Growth said: “Here at the West Midlands AHSN we’re constantly working with the NHS, councils, universities and businesses to make sure our services are making the most of technology.
“This 5G project is an exciting opportunity to focus on the needs of our rural areas.
“People outside our major towns and cities often find it hard to access services, and delivering health and care services to scattered populations is often expensive, so we’re excited to explore how 5G can make a difference”
Scott Thornton, WMAHSN digital lead for 5G, added: “It's frustrating that health and care are often behind the game when it comes to making the most of new technology.
“This partnership is another example of how the West Midlands is at the cutting edge of using technology to improve the lives of our citizens and patients and improving the quality of services in our rural communities.”