We’re looking at some of the latest news in health tech from across the NHS. From virtual wards success to new AI solutions and robotic-assisted surgery, here are some of the stories that have caught our attention.
AI used to investigate links between medications and skin cancer risks
Dr Zoe Venables, consultant dermatologist at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals, has been using AI to help identify and investigate the links between prescription medications and skin cancer. Supported by Prof Wenjia Wang, professor of AI at the School of Computer Sciences and Dr Kathryn Richardson, senior statistician at the University of East Anglia, Zoe has used the British Skin Foundation Young Investigator Award to aid in her research, which will analyse the “anonymised prescription data of more than a million patient records”.
Dr Venables, commented: “We know that some medications increase photosensitivity which make it more likely to get sun burnt and in turn this could lead to an increase in the likelihood of skin cancer. There is good evidence to suggest that a blood pressure medication that increases the risk of sun burn and in turn skin cancer risk and there are many other drugs that cause photosensitivity. However, it is difficult to give a definitive answer and this project will help to provide a more informed discussion with patients as to whether certain medicines may pose an increased risk.”
Population health data helps 156 children at risk of developing respiratory conditions
Since its launch in December 2023, the Warm Homes for Young Lungs project has reportedly helped 156 children at risk of developing breathing problems and worsening respiratory conditions. Run by Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, the project uses the region’s population health platform to identify and support children aged two to seven with a respiratory condition within the most deprived areas in the St Helens region.
The data is said to help to pinpoint children who have previously been prescribed Salbutamol and admitted to hospital within the last 12 months, helping to identify those who may be likely to become ill or deteriorate. The trust said, “as a result, the majority of children have had changes in their medication and all children received respiratory management plans and inhaler technique advice.”
175,000 patients benefit from virtual wards, according to NHSE South East
NHS England South East has reported a total of 175,000 patients have used virtual ward services since April 2022. The latest updates show the “steady growth” of this care pathway with “over 85,000 admissions to virtual wards” across the region during 2024, resulting in an 18 percent uplift since 2023.
More detailed analysis of the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire West ICB shows how the hospital at home programme has “significantly” reduced reliance on emergency services, with admission rates falling by “73 percent for adults and 85 percent for children”.
Annalise.ai solution helps detect life-threatening diseases in Harrogate
Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust recently introduced AI technology developed by Annalise.ai to help diagnose patients with life-threatening diseases such as lung cancer. According to the trust, the use of this software will “significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of chest X-ray analysis” which will ultimately help to “improve care and cut waiting times”.
This follows the implementation of another AI solution known as Radiobotics RBfracture, which has been used by the trust since July 2023 to help detect fractures, dislocation and other x-ray findings in a more efficient and accurate way.
Over 100 patients treated with robotic-assisted surgery
Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust’s surgical team has reportedly treated over 100 patients through robotic-assisted surgery, since the technology was introduced in September 2024. According to the trust, the robot offers “greater precision” when it comes to carrying out complex procedures, allowing for “smaller incisions” and “reduced damage to the surrounding tissue”.
The robot is currently being utilised in a number of areas including gynaecological cancer, general surgery and urology procedures, with plans to expand the service later this year upon the arrival of a second robot.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight NHS Trust encourages self-care via the Healthier Together app
Hampshire and Isle of Wight NHS Trust have been encouraging parents and carers within the region to download the Healthier Together app when faced with children presenting flu-like symptoms, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and COVID-19. With the aim to promote self-care at home, the app is being offered as an alternative to help reduce waiting times in emergency departments.
Sanjay Patel, consultant in paediatric infectious diseases working at Southampton Children’s Hospital spoke on the benefits of using the app, saying: “If you’re worried that your child is unwell, the Healthier Together app is a great place to start as it provides information and advice regarding your child’s health at your fingertips.”
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