Scotland’s healthcare innovators are set to gain fresh insights into using NHS procurement to drive new technologies. A free webinar hosted by InnoScot Health on September 24, 2025, will explore how smart buying strategies can boost patient care and cut costs across the National Health Service.
Event Details and Key Speakers
This online session, titled “Accelerating Healthcare Innovation Readiness Through the Vital Procurement Process,” runs from noon to 12:45 p.m. It targets NHS staff, innovators, and anyone interested in Scotland’s health tech future.
Frances Ramsay, Innovation Commercialisation Manager at InnoScot Health, leads the talk. She brings years of experience in turning ideas into real-world solutions. Joining her is David Beattie from NHS National Services Scotland, who manages contracts worth over 1.2 billion pounds each year.
The event highlights how procurement can foster partnerships and reduce risks. It ties into Scotland’s push for efficient, innovative health services amid rising demands.
Attendees will get joining details via Microsoft Teams after free registration. This makes it easy for people from all roles to join and learn.
Why Procurement Matters for NHS Innovation
Procurement in the NHS is more than just buying supplies. It acts as a gateway for new tech to enter hospitals and clinics, improving outcomes for patients.
Scotland’s strategy focuses on continuous improvement. This includes supplier relationships that spark innovations and enhance efficiency. For example, recent efforts have led to tools like the Health Innovation Assessment Portal, which evaluates new ideas quickly.
Experts say this approach helps tackle challenges like medical waste and rare disease screening. By integrating cutting-edge tech, the NHS can save money and deliver better care.
The webinar will cover best practices and real examples. It aims to show how innovators can navigate the system to bring ideas to life.
Real-World Impacts on Patient Care
Innovations driven by smart procurement are already making a difference in Scotland. New heart treatments and AI tools for lung cancer detection show the potential.
Take AI in lung care: It helps spot issues early, saving lives from what some call a “hidden killer.” Similarly, expanded newborn screening for rare conditions ensures faster diagnoses.
These advances come from collaborations between NHS teams and suppliers. The webinar will discuss how procurement supports such breakthroughs.
Scotland’s low emission zones in cities like Glasgow also link to health gains, reducing pollution-related illnesses. This broader view shows procurement’s role in public health.
- Newborn screening expansion: Covers more rare conditions across Scotland.
- AI lung cancer tools: Speeds up diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Heart treatment innovations: Offers new options for patients with cardiac issues.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
While progress is strong, hurdles remain. Budget pressures and the need for sustainable tech demand careful planning.
The webinar addresses these by exploring sustainable innovation strategies. It will look at cutting medical device waste through better procurement choices.
Scotland’s health research conference in 2025 adds to the momentum. It brings together experts to share ideas, much like this webinar.
Innovators can use portals like Scotland Innovates to test concepts. This service, backed by NHS, helps turn prototypes into approved products.
| Key NHS Innovation Areas | Recent Examples | Impact on Care |
|---|---|---|
| Rare Condition Screening | Newborn tests expanded | Early detection saves lives |
| AI for Lung Cancer | Diagnostic tools rolled out | Faster treatment for patients |
| Heart Treatments | New procedures introduced | Better outcomes for heart disease |
| Medical Waste Reduction | Scientist-led initiatives | Lower costs and environmental harm |
Future Outlook for Scottish Healthcare
Looking ahead, events like this webinar signal a bright path for NHS Scotland. With a focus on tech integration, the system aims to meet growing population needs.
Health Secretary Neil Gray has stressed embracing innovation to handle pressures. This aligns with national goals for efficient, patient-centered services.
The session restarts InnoScot Health’s webinar series after a summer break. It promises practical tips for those aiming to innovate.
As Scotland leads in health tech, such knowledge-sharing builds a stronger NHS. Attendees can expect actionable insights to apply in their work.
What do you think about using procurement to boost healthcare innovation? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to help others join the conversation.
