ExIST highlight region’s healthcare challenges

The Chamber’s Exeter initiative for Science and Technology (ExIST) welcomed speakers from the South West Academic Health Science Network, Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Exeter’s Professor of Biomedical Imaging and Biosensing, at its May event. Over 60 science and technology orientated businesses attended the event held at the Business School, the University of Exeter.

The three speakers covered a range of topics outlining the challenges faced by our region, the opportunities for business and an insight into future healthcare technology. Paula Varndell, Commercial Development Manager of South West Academic Health Science Network (SWAHSN) gave an overview of how her team work to support scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs to develop innovative new solutions to clearly defined challenges facing the NHS. SWAHSN is a network set up to focus on improving health outcomes by enhancing the quality and sustainability of healthcare through the adoption of innovation and best practice.

Andy McMinn, Chief Procurement Officer at Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust, whose hospital is the biggest in the South West peninsula, gave the group an insight into the importance of innovation in a challenging business environment with rising costs for clinical services and reduced income. Andy’s procurement team help with the complex process of procuring the NHS, supporting businesses to connect with staff and patients on the front line to identify the real challenges and need for innovation.

The third speaker, Professor of Biomedical Imaging and Biosensing at the University of Exeter, Professor Nick Stone, talked attendees through how rapid advances in Biophotonics can revolutionise diagnosis, using the power of light to achieve a non-invasive diagnosis, helping obtain a more effective outcome.

Robert McIlwraith, Chair of the ExIST group and board director of Exeter Chamber, said “Our quarterly events are great at promoting science and technology locally and showcases what happens in our city and the surrounding area and this event was no exception.”
For further information on this event and future events visit www.existexeter.co.uk