Transformative and Disruptive Innovations to Reduce Waiting Lists and Waiting Times

This call aims to support the development, clinical validation, and/or real-world evidence generation of transformative and disruptive innovations that have the potential to significantly reduce healthcare waiting lists and waiting times.

Applications are sought to enhance timely access to care through the development, clinical validation, and/or real-world evidence generation of transformative and disruptive technologies.

Outcomes might include:

• Enhanced Triaging: Streamlining the assessment and consultation process to efficiently manage patient flow and resource allocation, thereby reducing waiting times and lists.
• Diagnostic and Treatment Efficiencies: Technologies that reduce the time and resources needed to effectively diagnose or treat health conditions and/or speed up recovery times.
• Enhanced Access to Care: Enabling patients and carers to access personalised, evidence-based care and support tailored to their needs, regardless of location or background.
• Empowered Individuals and Carers: Technologies that equip individuals and carers with the tools and knowledge to manage care at home (e.g., virtual wards), helping to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
• Empowered Clinicians: Developing tools that assist clinicians in assessment and treatment, including the delivery of more personalised and effective treatment plans.

Eligible innovations include, but are not limited to, medical devices, in vitro diagnostics, NICE-classified digital health solutions, software, behavioural interventions, and new models of care. Innovations incorporating or employing game-changing technologies, such as artificial intelligence, quantum sensing, engineering biology, genomics, or wearables (including smartphones), are particularly welcomed. Innovations addressing NHS systemic reforms proposed by the government—such as the shift from analogue to digital, sickness to prevention, and hospital to community care—are also encouraged.