Digital accelerator programme selects new cohort of health sector innovators

The Propel@YH programme is now in its fifth year and has selected the next 11 HealthTech innovations that will benefit the region’s population and wider health economy.

Run by Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber, the programme supports innovators developing digital health solutions with access to a six-month course of structured support and advice aimed at enabling faster company growth and increased market presence.

A diverse range of companies have been selected. Innovations include an app that optimises the management and screening of hypertension, to a platform that makes the latest Parkinson’s and dementia care accessible for all.

The SMEs have innovations that can help NHS and social care organisations in any of the following areas: the workforce, waiting lists, mental health, early diagnostics, urgent and emergency care, patient empowerment, innovative ways of using AI Technology and the Office for Life Sciences healthcare priorities (dementia, early diagnosis of cancer, prevention of CVD, respiratory, ageing and mental health).

This year’s cohort include:

• THEIA AI
• MediTask
• Pogo Digital health
• Doctoria
• MAIYA
• Inicio
• Neu Health
• Optimise BP
• MyOpNotes
• Sympa Health
• Enrich My Care

The accelerator starts on 18 October. Chosen companies will receive support from several expert partners: Hill Dickinson (legal advice); Nexus, University of Leeds, (networking opportunities); Barclays Eagle Labs (growth support), Leeds Teaching Hospitals Innovation Pop Up (NHS insight and strategy), Par Equity (investment) and Leeds City Council will bring networking contacts to the programme.

Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber is one of 15 Health Networks set up by NHS England to operate as the key innovation arm of the NHS.

It acts as a bridge between health care providers, commissioners, academia and industry and accelerates the spread and adoption of proven innovations across the local healthcare system.

Dr Neville Young, director of enterprise and innovation at Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the chosen SMEs to receive expert advice and guidance from Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber and our key partners, so they can navigate the NHS market, increase their presence in the region and spread their innovations for the benefit of those living and working in Yorkshire and the Humber.”

Dawn Bunn, Barclays Eagle Labs Health Tech Manager said: “The Propel@YH programme offers Health Tech entrepreneurs across the UK the foundation to focus on the commercialisation of their product which they hope to procure to the NHS.

“Developing their understanding of the NHS governance, finance and procurement frameworks, clinical safety and supplier regulations, Barclays Eagle Labs adds a unique level of support including specialist growth support and mentoring.”

Joe Sims, founder at Theia AI, said: “We’re really excited to be part of the new cohort. As part of the Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) for AI in medical diagnosis and care, I’m really keen to apply my knowledge in the industry.

“Collaborating with Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber would not only help us develop our technology but also provide a better understanding of the pressures faced by healthcare professionals today, allowing us to tailor the product to fit their needs.”