A new funding programme has been launched by NHSX to support Integrated Care Systems (ICSs) that are interested in digitising musculoskeletal (MSK) pathways – either through introducing or scaling up digital innovations.
Around £1 million in funding is available in total through the programme, which aims to support ICSs, who have already thought about digitising MSK pathways, with purchasing and implementing technologies. Each applicant organisation can apply for up to £200,000.
After recently publishing its MSK digital playbook – which acts as a guide to signpost NHS organisations and professionals towards examples of digital tools, services and ideas for treatment pathways – NHSX is now seeking interested ICSs to join its ‘Digital Innovations for Musculoskeletal Health’ project. The organisation says this new initiative is aligned with the NHS Long Term Plan, as it hopes to contribute to reducing ‘low clinical value outpatient visits’ by 30%.
Successful ICSs will be invited to join a community of MSK digital innovators, where each organisation can exchange learnings and resources, and will also be expected to produce a case study at the end of the project.
NHSX advises interested parties to show ‘active engagement from’ ICS partners in their applications, as well as senior level buy-in. While ICSs that do participate will be expected to have live pathways and the readiness to implement technology by early 2022.
Completed application forms must be submitted by 17 September 2021 and shortlisted applicants will be notified on 23 September, with the final decision made on 4 October. To support potential applicants, online information sessions will be held from 3 to 10 September and queries about the project – prior to submission and the deadline – can be directed to innovation.offers@nhsx.nhs.uk.
To find out more about the opportunity and how to apply, click here.
