2018-2023
FIVE
Years of SBRI In this edition Collaborating to create innovative solutions
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Celebrating 5 Years of SBRI Centre of Excellence
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Making a difference
Page 6
SBRI Highlights
Pages 7- 14
What is next ?
Pages 15 -18
Want to find out more
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SBRI COE — collaborating to create innovative solutions to improve health and wellbeing in Wales Wales faces many challenges to improve the health and wellbeing of its citizens and to give current and future generations a good quality of life. To do this, we need to find new, efficient, effective and innovative ways to deliver services. A Healthier Wales, Well Being of Future Generations Act and Prosperity for All have key themes running through them. They encourage organisations to work together through collaboration to make Wales healthier, prosperous, resilient, innovative, united and connected. The Minster for Health and Social Care Services said that ‘The Innovation Programme for Health and Social Care will bring a tighter focus to existing activities, will strengthen national direction and will lock in changes we have seen in response to the pandemic, helping to maintain the pace and scale of change in health and social care ‘ Morgan, E (2021). The SBRI Centre of Excellence offers a ‘unique’ service in promoting, assisting and collaborating with all public sector organisations to improve the health and wellbeing of those living within Wales. With Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board as a hosting organisation, stakeholders are more willing to talk about their problems as they understand that we can appreciate the difficulties they face.
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The SBRI Centre of Excellence has a strong desire and has shown to date that it can develop and inform a more complete, driven and successful SBRI process, continuing to connect programmes, organisations and individuals to benefit all of Health and Social Care within Wales. The SBRI Centre would like to extend sincere gratitude to our esteemed partners and sponsors in Welsh Government, Betsi Cadwaldr University Health Board, and the UK Innovation Network. Your invaluable support fuels our endeavours, fostering innovation and collaborative progress. We appreciate your commitment to advancing shared goals and driving positive change. Thank you for being integral to our success.
Lynda Jones
Sharon Smith
Head of Challenge Led Innovation 2
Deputy Head of Challenge Led Innovation 3
5 YEARS OF COE
Celebrating 5 Years of SBRI Centre of Excellence Over two years the sole member, Lynda Jones, cemented the Centres position within the innovation network before welcoming new members to the team.
Celebrating 5 years of Improving Health and Wellbeing through a National Collaborative Network for New Products and Services to Address Health Care Challenges and Needs.
The SBRI Centre Team has been recruited from Health and Public Sector as such members have vast experience in managing SBRI projects within health and public sector organisations.
The Centre of Excellence was launched September 2018 aiming to reduce health inequalities by collaborating with the public sector across Wales to address their challenges and with businesses to find innovative solutions. With support from Welsh Government and Betsi Cadwaldr University Health Board the dream of the Head of the Centre was brought to fruition.
How we have grown The end of 2020 saw the Centre grow with three new additions to the department, a Business Analyst, a Project Manager and a Centre Support Officer. Work continued on promoting the Centres services and increasing stakeholder engagement whilst delivering real results that could benefit the health of the Welsh community. It was on the emergence of the pandemic that the Centres real potential was proven, being the first of its kind to complete an SBRI project within 6 weeks and changing the existing model to flex and suit the individual need of the challenge. Such agile working not only highlighted the Centre as an area of best practice but also won them the St David’s Award for innovation. Along with the team’s growth saw an expansion in services delivered, this included certified training to individuals at a reduced rate, mentoring, project management and bid writing support. As the Centres reputation for delivering projects that made a difference to how health care could be provided grew, as did the demand for the services.
To find out more about SBRI COE please visit our website www.sbri.coe@wales.nhs.uk
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Making a Difference: Our Story in Figures £4.9m Of funding leveraged
448 Ideas submitted
Rapid Sanitisation
FFP3 Face Masks
53 Businesses supported
10 Challenges released
10 Welsh businesses
Outpatients Simulation Better Lives, Emotional Health, Delivering Safe disposal Improving Transformation Training Closer to Home Wellbeing & Emergency of Entinox Ergonomics Resilience Care
157 Public Sector collaborations established 120 NHS colleagues 25 Welsh Government colleagues 12 Other Innovation colleagues
Improving Patient Communication
SBRI Highlights
Hygiene Pro Clean designed an ultrasonic atomisation delivery system which diffuses a highly effective decontamination solution in a soft plume-shaped spray; ensuring uniform dispersal reducing overspray and waste. The system, combined with HPC’s training and protocols, provides an effective decontamination of any void or space. Their product has now been adopted.
Ambulance Rapid Sanitisation The 1st rapid SBRI of its kind
Adopting this technology has brought about
During the pandemic the Welsh Ambulance Service (WAST) ambulances had to be thoroughly cleaned once a patient with suspected COVID-19 had been transported. These cleaning times could take up to 2 hours and, in some circumstances, had to be undertaken at specialist cleaning centres away from the ambulances station or hospital site. This resulted in an increased strain on an already busy and pressurised service as the vehicles could not be used until the cleaning was completed. This challenge looked to identify, develop and demonstrate rapid sanitising technologies to help the WAST teams. Due to the nature of the COVID-19 Pandemic the SBRI Centre along with colleagues within Welsh Government decided to undertake a ‘rapid’ SBRI with assistance from the Defence and Security Accelerator and the Defence and Security Technology Laboratories. This approach was the first of its kind within the UK, this project managed to accelerate the SBRI process from a 12-18 month process into 6 weeks. Jonathan Turnbull-Ross, Assistant Director of Quality Governance said: “SBRI have enabled the Trust, and key staff, to undertake an ambitious innovation project at the most challenging of times.”
86% reduction in ambulance cleaning time. 82% reduction in ambulance cleaning costs. Giving the staff the time to undertake other duties. Gold standard of cleaning achieved.
Benefits to the Business and Economy
Lynda Jones, Head of the SBRI Centre of Excellence, expressed her pride in the centre’s achievements:
"Through our collaborative approach and commitment to pushing boundaries, we have been able to make a real difference. We look forward to continuing our work and delivering even greater successes in the future."
2 additional jobs. £308K of further contracts obtained. Projected benefits for the next 1 – 3 Years: £300 - £450K for finance and jobs. >£1m Indirectly into other emergency services and the wider industry Grow the team by another 7-10 staff. The technology is now also used by the Police Force, Fire Brigade & applied to many industry sectors or problems.
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Adopting this technology has achieved the following benefits
Outpatient Transformation Project Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly powerful tool, aiding in accurate and efficient identification of various diseases. In the field of prostate cancer diagnosis Galan Ibex Solution stands out as a remarkable innovation, leveraging the power of AI and deep learning algorithms to assist pathologists. Combining advanced image analysis techniques with cutting-edge machine learning models to enhance accuracy and efficiency of diagnosis. Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers affecting men worldwide. Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan and improving patient outcomes. By employing a two-step process, it uses computer vision algorithms to analyse digitized histopathology images of prostate tissue samples. These algorithms can identify cancerous regions, classify different cell types, and detect abnormalities with remarkable precision. In the second step, deep learning models trained on vast datasets of annotated pathology images provide diagnostic insights to pathologists. These models enable the identification of subtle patterns and indicators that might be challenging to discern through conventional methods alone.
13 % increased pick up rate for cancer. 9% increase in the pickup rate of perineural invasion compared to the same period in 2019 (pre AI). 99.5% Negative predictive rate 99.4% Positive predictive rate Potential cost saving of £1,582 per biopsy by reducing the number of repeat biopsies carried out. The SBRI team were instrumental in obtaining further funding for 6 Health Boards across Wales to undertake Scale and Spread activities. Over the next 12 months the Health Boards will use the solution to assist the Pathology teams to build up ‘real world evidence’ to feed into a technical appraisal to inform any procurement decision (full procurement/tender exercise will be undertaken) An appraisal is also being undertaken by colleagues in Health Technology Wales to consider fuller clinical effectiveness (specifically, how does it actually change patient management and outcomes) and cost-effectiveness. This will also feed in to learning lessons of the use of AI in Pathology services across Wales. Consultant pathologist Dr Muhammad Aslam, told BBC Wales that :
The AI can read multiple slides from numerous patients in minutes, the app then grades the samples using a traffic light system, which alerts a consultant to the most urgent cases. The AI system also shows the extent of the tumour, as well as whether it is likely to become more aggressive. Prostate biopsies are a painful procedure to go through, if the sample is not appropriately read, the outcome can be that either the cancer is missed, or the biopsy needs to be repeated.
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"This technology is a game changer. "The Galen application is like another consultant doing all the work and bringing the results to me. "We are the first team and the first health board to use this technology for clinical diagnosis in the UK. We are the pioneers."
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5 YEARS OF COE
Face Mask Challenge During Covid-19 Community Dentistry, were faced with finding suitably fitted FFP3 level (Filtering Face Piece Respirator) masks when performing dental procedures. With the various shaped and sized faces of staff, ensuring masks fitted safely in line with Health Board policy proved difficult. Those who struggled to find an appropriate fitted mask were either provided with an expensive PAPR hood or were unable to carry out clinical duties. We soon discovered this was not just an issue for dentistry but all NHS health and social care staff. The challenge looked to identify, develop and demonstrate rapid FFP3 facemask technologies that would ensure safety and fit, but also consider other elements such as improving patient experience through transparency and sustainability. This project brought about a collaboration between with NHS Wales, the SBRI Centre of Excellence and the Welsh Government. In addition expert advice, support, and guidance was provided by experts from the Surgical Materials Testing Laboratory, NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership (NWSSP), Health Boards from across NHS Wales and NHS England Improvement and worked with six suppliers to find a solution to this problem.
Simulation Technology for Healthcare Training Previously Tracheostomy training was delivered through a combination of online education and face-to-face simulation training; however, during Covid, the challenges of social distancing, lack of training facilities and the need for selfisolation made face-to-face training increasingly difficult. This challenge affected not only the collaborator Cardiff and Vale but every Health Board across the UK. Initially focusing on tracheostomy with the aim to be applicable to support other specialities, the challenge looked to identify, develop and test rapid simulation technology solutions in an operational environment, in a safe and appropriate way. Not only delivering training in a more convenient way, without time or location restrictions, an effective solution would prevent training backlogs and enable clinicians to complete competencies and revalidation requirements in a timely manner.
Helloface, one of the suppliers in the Face Mask Project have proudly announced their clear facemask have passed thorough testing to become BSI certified for their opaque mask.
Six months after project closure CAVUHB are happy to advise that VR is now regularly used for tracheostomy education within the UHB and utilised in events across NHS Wales.
Providing businesses w ith the resource to develop innovative solutions Both businesses stated that without SBRI their product would not have been developed, and it was only through the competition and the funding received that they could turn their ideas into reality. Across the two businesses a transparent FFP3 mask, a transparent and reusable P3 mask, and a digital fit testing app have been developed
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Paul Twose, Consultant Therapist Critical Care CAVUHB said “Working with the SBRI was a fantastic experience. From day 1 until long beyond the project finished, the team were incredibly supportive, always available when needed and working in partnership with us to achieve the aims of the project. I hope to work with the SBRI again and further push forward our work with virtual reality for healthcare simulation and education”. 12
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Better Lives closer to home The effects of the pandemic deeply affected individuals across Wales whether that be to their physical or mental health, economic impact, loss of jobs and income, living standards alongside the increased pressure on public services such as medical settings and social services. Welsh Government in collaboration with the SBRI Centre of Excellence invited business and academia to develop new products or services that would support long term health and wellbeing with a focus on better lives closer to home which fell under the themes of ‘build back green’, ‘sustainability and security of supply chains’ and ‘supporting mental and physical wellbeing for all generations’. Working with potential future customers five businesses were supported to understand the feasibility of their solution whilst three were taken forward to prototype development. Three suppliers entered in to Phase 2 where prototypes were fully developed and tested. Of those three suppliers, two were finalists of prestigious awards with one being successful in the Best Tech Leader category of the Welsh Tech Awards for the work carried out during this SBRI Project. Whilst two suppliers have continued to work with organisations to pilot their solutions one has launched their fully developed platform which included bespoke carbon models for measurement and aggregation.
Rhian Edwards Operations Director, VZTA Smart Towns (Near me Now) said “SBRI understand how the public sector can work successfully with the private sector “ 13
Improving the ergonomics for Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeons while performing Endoscopic Ear Surgery An ear endoscope for Endoscopic Ear Surgery (EES) allows doctors to perform complex operations. This method is less invasive than the traditional way to perform an ear surgery. These procedures can last up to three hours, as such holding the endoscope for long periods of time, performing small movements on a very delicate organ causes significant musculoskeletal stress on the clinician. It is possible that these conditions, which are particular to EES, are related to the higher levels of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) in otological surgeons. The challenge brought together Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board and Welsh Government to work with business to identify, develop and demonstrate near market ready innovative solutions that were able improve ergonomics for surgeons; reduce surgery times; reduce MSDs in ENT surgeons; whilst being cost effective and sustainable. The project ran as a single Phase SBRI from January to March 2023. One supplier, Vivo Medical Devices Ltd, was awarded a contract to undertake feasibility and develop a prototype. Feedback was very positive and early indications suggested that the preferred device increased comfort and could reduce surgeon intraoperative hand tremor. The project is now closed but the supplier is in discussion with SBRI Centre of Excellence to loan a regulatory approved device that can be trialled in situ by the Project Lead, Mr Sam Fishpool, ENT Consultant, for an extended period, with the aim of commercialisation and scale up across health boards across the UK. 9 14
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What is next for SBRI COE As we embark on the next chapter of the SBRI Centre of Excellence, we are thrilled to introduce you to an exciting journey filled with innovation, collaboration, and transformation. Our commitment to driving technological advancement and fostering partnerships remains unwavering, and the road ahead is poised to be a testament to our dedication. In the ever-evolving landscape of research and development, the SBRI Centre of Excellence continues to be a beacon of excellence, providing a platform for visionary thinkers and ground-breaking ideas. As we look forward, our vision is clear: to be at the forefront of facilitating the development of pioneering solutions that address society's most pressing challenges and opportunities. The pages that follow will showcase our impactful projects for this year, and highlight the extraordinary individuals and organizations who make up our thriving ecosystem. From forging new alliances with industry leaders to empowering emerging talents, we are charting a course that promises to propel innovation to new heights. This journey is not just about us; it's about the collective effort of our community, working together to shape a better future. Join us as we explore the frontiers of innovation, pushing boundaries and realising the potential of ground-breaking ideas.
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Changing the way we deliver Emergency Care The unprecedented demand on both ambulances and Urgent & Emergency Care services across Wales brought about the Centre of Excellence’s latest challenge. In collaboration with Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust and Welsh Government, the Centre of Excellence is working with businesses to find solutions that can transform the way services are given and help provide care closer to home. Such solutions have the potential to provide high impact and improve the patient experience for the population of Wales. Phase 1 of the challenge has seen two businesses work closely with subject matter experts to develop a solution fit for purpose and phase 2 is due to start imminently where successful solutions will be robustly tested in a live environment. "This will be the second time that I have had the opportunity to deliver a project with the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust (WAST) on such an important challenge. I look forward to working with WAST and the businesses again in Phase 2. It will very much be a collaboration with every Team member bringing something valuable to the table". 16
Kiran Jagpal Project Manager SBRI Centre of Excellence
5 YEARS OF COE
Safe and Ethical Disposal of Nitrous Oxide and Entonox Medical Gases
How do we improve access to information for relatives of loved ones in hospital, reducing the demand on staff time?
Supporting the NHS Wales Decarbonisation plan for the Welsh public sector to be carbon neutral by 2030, the Centre of Excellence in collaboration with Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and Welsh Government, is currently working with business on a Project around the Safe and Ethical Disposal of Medical Gases. The aims of the Project are to find a sustainable and cost-effective solution to reduce our emissions of nitrous oxide and Entonox; the safe disposal of nitrous oxide and Entonox medical gases in a sustainable way; to reduce the purchasing of Entonox and nitrous oxide; to reduce waste in our Entonox supply system; and to improve air quality in the delivery rooms on labour wards.
An exciting ongoing project that could have the potential to help all carers/patients across NHS Wales through improving communications is currently in Phase 2, the further development and testing of two solutions is being carried out in an NHS setting across six wards, working with clinical colleagues, Patient Liaison Teams, patients and their relatives/carers to ensure that theses proposed solutions can demonstrate that there are fit for purpose and that they deliver the benefits that are needed.
Nitrous oxide has a global warming potential approximately 298 times that of carbon dioxide. The Healthcare Without Harm Report showed that 5.6% of UK emissions are from healthcare.
“SBRI have been an incredible catalyst for capturing the needs of clinical staff such as myself. Such needs would likely remain unmet due to their complexity yet SBRI have been amazing in facilitating a successful focused application for funding to work with providers to come up with solutions that look promising in the real world of clinical settings. It is no mean feat working with an array of staff with different professional backgrounds and approaches, yet SBRI have ably coordinated day-to-day project management of the projects which I am responsible for as a Challenge Lead. The SBRI team are friendly, highly-skilled and ensure rigour in the challenge processes. Working with them is a significant highlight of my work in the Health Board”.
The project is currently in Phase 2, the demonstrator/testing phase, where one supplier is working closely with a team of healthcare experts and is due to close in July 2024.
Tracey Williamson, BCUHB Nurse Consultant - Challenge Lead for this Project said
Faye Williams SBRI Centre of Excellence Project Support Officer
““This project has been of great interest to me, working with a dedicated field of experts I hope to see a solution that will make a positive impact and be a step to reducing our harmful emissions”. 4 17
“It has been a pleasure working with such an enthusiastic Project team and our SBRI colleagues are very excited about being part of the Pilot to improve information and communication received by relatives of those admitted to some of our wards.” Senthil Muthukumar SBRI Centre of Excellence Project Manager 5
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Want to know more about SBRI Centre of Excellence please visit our Website
https://sbriwales.co.uk/
If you work for Public Sector we want to hear from you The initial stage of an SBRI is to discuss the problems and challenges you and your service users are facing. By completing the box below we can start to work with you to tease out and scope your problems into an SBRI challenge. It’s important when you are thinking about your challenges not to focus on the solution just the problem. The whole essence of SBRI is to identify the problem not the solution and allow businesses to do this bit for us. Please be assured any information you share with us will be treated with sensitivity and confidence.
https://sbriwales.co.uk/public-sector-challenges/
Whether you are a small, medium or large business, or an academic organisation we want to hear from you if you have an idea/solution that can help us with our open competitions. We can help you access health expertise to develop a solution that is a ‘win win’ for all. 100% of the SBRI funding goes to you as a business and you own the intellectual property. To see our open competitions and to apply, please go via our Simply Do Portal. To be the first to hear when a new competition opens you can join our mailing list by completing the box below.
https://sbriwales.co.uk/industry-competitions/
