Technology is not enough to drive healthcare innovation. We need to learn from startups, not only in terms of what they have achieved, but also how they have achieved it. Startups operate with a methodology of learning, testing, taking risks, and pursuing growth. Embracing the startup mindset is similar to the practice of precision medicine, where we incorporate mechanistic tools and discoveries of molecular medicine to improve diagnostics and treatments. Both require a holistic approach.
In the healthcare tech industry, there is no shortage of inspiring ideas, especially in a country with a rich history of innovation. However, the challenge lies in execution and adoption at scale. The unique challenges in healthcare innovation, such as patient care, data protection, and complex regulations, should not discourage us from pursuing innovation. Progress has been made to address these challenges, with initiatives like NHS Innovation Hubs providing clinical settings for testing products, dedicated groups assisting with bureaucratic hurdles, and specialized funds supporting concept development in healthtech.
To bridge the gap in healthtech, a “triple helix partnership” between the NHS, academia, and industry is necessary. This partnership aims to create a seamless pipeline from research and development to real-world implementation, with the potential to reduce waiting lists, improve patient outcomes, and boost economic growth. Collaboration and sharing insights are crucial to achieving this goal.
The upcoming event with Dame Anna Dominiczak and Mark Logan, Chief Entrepreneur for the Scottish Government, will discuss how Scotland can embrace entrepreneurial and startup thinking to address health and care challenges. The event will focus on capitalizing on ideas, adopting innovation at scale, overcoming barriers, and creating the necessary infrastructure. It is important to involve clinicians, healthcare professionals, and individuals from the medical community to drive real change in healthcare delivery.
Source: Dame Anna Dominiczak, Chief Scientist (Health) for the Scottish Government, and Regius Professor of Medicine at the University of Glasgow
