26.06.18
NHS will convert space technology into health solutions in £4m scheme
Up to four lucky applicants will have the unique chance to work alongside the UK Space Agency to turn technology originally designed for extraplanetary discovery – from exploration to satellite communications – into medical solutions for the NHS.
In a new partnership with NHS England, the UK Space Agency will be allocating up to £4m to fund hi-tech solutions to fix the biggest health and care challenges facing the health service. These include managing long-term conditions, including joining up health and care services; earlier diagnosis of cancer; transforming primary care; and meeting mental health needs.
Innovators will be able to bid for a share of the money, which will eventually be distributed amongst up to four applications to help develop their ideas alongside support and advice from NHS England and the European Space Agency.
While the scheme itself is unique, this won’t be the first time space technology has been adapted for NHS use. Previous examples 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 that help prevent falls, and apps that support the prevention of skin cancer.
Emily Gravestock, head of applications at the UK Space Agency, said the space sector encourages all businesses and public bodies to consider the role that satellite data can play in tackling the biggest challenges we face as part of the government’s Industrial Strategy.
At present, the UK’s space industry builds a whopping 40% of the world’s small satellites and 25% of the world’s telecommunications satellites.
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.”
For details of how to get involved, contact Gravestock at [email protected].