NHS Digital are running a series of trials exploring how state-of-the-art wireless technologies can support the delivery of improved healthcare.
Applications for the Wireless Centre of Excellence trials closes on the 29th of July, with NHS organisations that are either planning or currently implementing creative wireless solutions being encouraged to apply.
The trials will allow organisations to apply for funding for wireless and innovative technology that will improve the connectivity within their health and care settings.
Patrick Clark, NHS Digital’s Director of Infrastructure Services, said: “Wireless technologies will continue to play an increasingly important role as the NHS looks to implement new models of care to allow patients to receive treatment at home or in mobile health settings.
“They will also help provide clinicians with access to data and digital systems wherever they need it. We are already seeing many of the benefits of cutting-edge wireless technology and innovation – from enabling real-time remote diagnosis in a mobile health unit to supporting live observations in the first 5G hospital in the UK.
“These projects are a step-forward in digital transformation and will bring an array of benefits, particularly for those least able to access healthcare and for digitally isolated hospitals and health centres. We look forward to working with successful trialists this year to further realise the benefits of wireless technologies and high-speed connectivity in improving healthcare.”
Previous NHS Digital wireless trials include University College London Hospitals’ Find and Treat service, which uses cutting-edge tools and software to deliver real-time remote diagnosis and referrals, whilst on board a mobile health unit.
Another NHS Digital-funded trial led to South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust becoming the first 5G-connected hospital in the UK. As part of the trial, clinicians have access to an app that allows them to update patient records digitally and make live observations via a handheld device.
Whist the current trials scheme is just a one-year programme, applications for longer trials will also be considered. Applicants will need to provide “an overview of their wireless project and objectives, the anticipated outcome and impact for delivery of health or social care, as well as the healthcare need or technological challenge they are seeking to overcome” in order to be considered for the programme.
How to apply and more information on the trials in general is available here.
Also, don’t forget to register for our Digital Health virtual event on the 21st of July if you want to learn about all the latest digital innovations in the NHS.
