Since October, I have been working as a research fellow in digital mental health at the University of Manchester, focusing on how digital health solutions can be effectively integrated into the NHS.
One big question that drives my research is why so many promising digit al health tools are struggling to move beyond the pilot phase. Some innovations take off, while others are lost in the system. To better understand this, I have been reviewing existing research and consulting key stakeholders to explore barriers and opportunities in NHS adoption pathways. Since January, I have specifically engaged with representatives from NHS England, NICE, academia, and industry to identify critical bottlenecks. Some of the key issues coming up include unclear procurement pathways, regulatory confusion, slow approvals, and lack of accountability among key NHS stakeholders. Digital health innovators often face challenges in meeting NHS evidence standards and dealing with a fragmented decision-making process, which slows down the adoption and scaling of new solutions.
Once my interviews are complete, I will begin drafting a report with practical recommendations to address these challenges. This report will not only inform policy discussions but also serve as a valuable resource for innovators trying to navigate this complex landscape. The accompanying flowchart summarises key stages of my work.
In addition, I recently started chairing the sessions of the Digital Health Reading and Research Group. The group offers a safe and friendly space for professionals to discuss and exchange ideas on digital health research and innovation. To broaden our reach, we will soon launch a LinkedIn account to share updates, events and key discussions on digital health, helping us connect with a wider audience.
One of the biggest takeaways from my journey so far is that innovation in digital health is not just about technology, but about people. True progress comes from effective communication, close collaboration with NHS professionals, and a deep understanding of their challenges. I am excited to continue learning from experts in this area and contributing to the future of digital mental health. If you are working on something in this space or have insights to share, let’s connect. More updates coming soon on our LinkedIn page!
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