New ‘routemap’ designed to help innovators navigate ‘maze’ to NHS

A new “routemap” of the MedTech landscape has been released to help accelerate the entry, adoption and spread of innovative technologies.

The Academic Health Science Networks, in partnership with the Association of British HealthTech Industries, hope the report will help tech companies navigate the “innovation maze” and become a commercial success.

Improvements in national policy have helped to support the sector, including the commitments in the Accelerated Access Review and the NHS Long Term Plan, but the report found there was a need for better practical advice to support newcomers.

Piers Ricketts, vice-chair of the AHSN and chief executive of the Eastern AHSN, said: “The health and science infrastructure in the UK is uniquely positioned to take advantage of the opportunities for economic growth and improved patient outcomes created by MedTech.

“However, there is a risk of companies getting lost as they navigate the innovation maze.

“Within this report we have set out how, as a network, we can help developers navigate through a MedTech innovation pathway to support patients, clinicians and UK plc.”

The report used the AHSNs understanding of the NHS ecosystem to outline how technologies need to be incorporated into a much wider service redesign in order to demonstrate impact and value.

It highlights the integrated approach necessary to supporting MedTech innovations including; creation; development; regulation; evaluation; market access; commissioning and adoption.

The AHSNs also offer their Innovation Exchanges, operated by each of the 15 regional networks, which link innovative solutions with existing local healthcare system challenges to ensure that the local needs of the STP and Integrated Care Systems are met.