A new pilot programme designed to support the NHS’ commitment to reduce its carbon impact has selected its first innovative partners who will be the focus of Yorkshire & Humber Academic Health Science Network’s inaugural ‘green’ accelerator programme.
Three companies will initially take part in the programme. Dignio provides an integrated care platform connecting patients and healthcare professionals, Automedi, a sustainable 3D printer and Patients Know Best provides a digital personal health record.
Commissioned by West Yorkshire and Harrogate Health and Care Partnership and delivered by Yorkshire & Humber AHSN, the Propel@YH Net Zero pilot programme will allow all three companies access to a structured course of bespoke support and advice around the environmental sustainability of their products.
All of the organisations selected have sustainable or ‘green’ innovations or have existing products that can support the NHS’ ambition of having ‘net zero’ emissions by 2040 and which is set out in its report ‘Delivering a Net Zero National Health Service’.
Kathy Scott, Deputy Chief Executive at the Yorkshire & Humber AHSN commented, “Innovation is all about change and if we are going to address this massive issue, we need to bring about change in the way we think and operate. The AHSN is perfectly positioned to support the drive for environmental sustainability at every stage and every level and support the development and uptake of innovations that support this crucial agenda.
“All three of the selected companies offer innovative green solutions to help the NHS achieve its target of reaching net zero by 2040 and we will work closely with them to enable them to bring their innovative green solutions to the region.”
Dignio is a digital integrated care platform that connects both patients and healthcare professionals, providing virtual remote care. It is patient-focused and empowers the user to self-manage their condition with the support from healthcare professionals.
Ewa G Truchanowicz, Managing Director of Dignio in the UK said on the announcement, “We are really pleased to have been selected for this innovative project. The Dignio Integrated Care Platform has the potential to radically change healthcare in the UK. Digital solutions, like ours, are not only helping the NHS in reducing costs but also able to help it reach its net zero target.”
Frank Swinton, Climate Change Lead for West Yorkshire and Harrogate Health and Care Partnership commented on the new green accelerator, “Climate change and health are intricately linked in that they both affect one another in a circular fashion. It is therefore imperative that we work to break the cycle and ensure that our health and social care services are as environmentally friendly as possible going forwards.
“This scheme is a great way to help innovators bring their green med solutions closer to being everyday tech that is used across the sector and we’re delighted to be able to offer this programme in West Yorkshire and Harrogate where we aspire to being global leaders in our response to climate change.”
