NHS digital is currently running trials to investigate how wireless technologies can support the delivery of better health and care.
The Wireless Centre of Excellence trials permit NHS organisations to apply for funding for wireless and innovative technology to improve connectivity in health and care settings. The trials are open for applications until 29 July and applications are encouraged from organisations that are either considering, or are in the process of implementing creative wireless solutions.
This trials scheme is a one-year programme, though applications for longer trials may be considered. When applying, applicants should provide an overview of their wireless project and objectives, the predicted outcome and the impact for health or social care. They should also include the healthcare need or technical challenges they are hoping to overcome.
A previous wireless trial by NHS digital - University College London Hospitals’ Find and Treat service - used high-tech tools and software to provide real-time remote diagnosis and referrals on board a mobile health unit. The service provided screening, testing and treatment for vulnerable, homeless and high-risk people in London.
NHS Digital’s Director of Infrastructure Services, Patrick Clark, 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.”
