East Midlands Academic Health Science Network (EMAHSN) has launched an Innovation Academy to help develop new ideas in the health sector. Participants will gain a greater understanding of how the NHS takes forward new innovative products and services to improve patient care and cost efficiency.

In partnership with life sciences association Medilink Midlands, the academy will offer modules on a range of topics, all designed to help participants put their ideas into practice, at whatever stage of development they are at. These modules are completely free and will be delivered via webinars, live Q&A sessions and online resources. Topics covered include NHS structures, pricing mechanisms, attracting private investment and involving patients.

Anyone can register with the Innovation Academy – sole traders, SMEs, corporates, clinicians, nurses, GPs, academics, care staff, private and voluntary sector organisations. Participants don’t have to be based in the East Midlands.

Darren Clark, CEO of Medilink Midlands, said: “The Midlands is a hotbed of innovation and we have so many inventive and inquisitive companies who are all looking to tackle the life science issues we face. I’m pleased that we are working with the EMAHSN to better enable companies in the region to bring their ideas to reality.”

The live Q&A session for the first module – Understanding the NHS Structure: Insight from a Commissioning/Trust Perspective – takes place on Thursday 10 March at 10am.

Visit the Innovation Academy website to find out more, and to register.

To find out how Think Sandwell can support your company in its ambitions to grow, develop and innovate, visit our business services page.