NHS England has launched trials to help accelerate the development and uptake of wireless technology in healthcare.
As part of the trials, NHS organisations will be invited to showcase how innovative wireless technologies can improve connectivity across health and care settings and optimise the efficiency of existing digital infrastructure.
Projects aiming to improve digital technology in healthcare can apply for funding through the Connectivity Hub.
Stephen Koch, Executive Director of Platforms, NHS England, explained: “Wireless technology has an increasingly important role to play in delivering effective and efficient digital health services to provide the best care for patients.
“The wireless trials are designed to help the NHS understand how existing and emerging Wi-Fi solutions can support the delivery of better health and social care across the wider NHS.
“We look forward to working with successful trialists to explore opportunities for wireless technologies and high-speed connectivity that take another step forward in digital transformation and in improving patient care.”
How can NHS organisations apply for the trial?
Applications for the wireless technology trials will run from Summer 2023 and will be reviewed over the year.
Applicants must demonstrate an overview of their wireless technology project and how it can enrich the sector, such as how it will be delivered, its benefits, and the healthcare challenges they aim to overcome.
Successful applicants will receive support in the form of funding and advice from NHS England. They will also be able to collaborate with leading organisations on Wi-Fi improvement projects.
The wireless technology trials will help the NHS meet its digital targets outlined in the NHS Long Term Plan.
NHS wireless technology success stories
Earlier trials have helped to cultivate a range of beneficial wireless technology in healthcare.
For example, the trial enabled University College London Hospitals to create the Find and Treat service, which provides real-time remote diagnosis and referrals on board a mobile health unit.
Find and Treat allows remote screening, testing, and treatment for vulnerable and high-risk people in London.
Another trial pioneered the UK’s first 5G-connected hospital at the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust.
Funding gave clinicians access to wireless technology such as the eObs app (eObservations) that enables handheld devices to digitally update patient records and observations in real-time.
