A groundbreaking health technology data project in Moray, Scotland has received recognition as the best Up and Coming TEC innovation at the ITEC (International Technology Care) Awards 2024.
The project focuses on compiling comprehensive data on social determinants of health and is part of the Rural Centre of Excellence’s initiative to develop five ‘living labs’. This tech-driven pilot aims to address the growing demand on health and social care services in the region due to factors such as increased life expectancy, higher service demand, and a shortage of healthcare professionals.
Funded by the UK government with £5 million, the Rural Centre of Excellence for Digital Health and Care Innovation was established in 2021 as a component of the Moray growth deal. Led by Scotland’s Digital Health and Innovation Centre, the project is pioneering an approach that empowers patients and carers while promoting proactive health and wellbeing management by the public.
Dr. Malcolm Simmons, GP clinical lead for Moray, expressed the potential benefits of the personal data store in sharing relevant linked data across various aspects of patients’ lives. This initiative aims to shift the care focus to self-management and community services to alleviate pressure on frontline services and provide more targeted and efficient care.
Data Sharing Benefits
The collaboration and analysis of data in this project are globally unique, offering significant impact potential for both citizens and services. The insights generated at individual and population levels enable enhanced self-management, early intervention, and targeted resource allocation.
Recruiting for the ‘Living Labs’
Recent public events have been organized to recruit participants for the ‘living labs’ in Moray. The goal is to have individuals trial the technology to gauge its value and efficiency. Successful results in Moray may lead to the expansion of this technology to other regions in Scotland.
Simon Bokor Ingram, chief officer for the Moray Health and Social Care Partnership, highlighted the potential of digital solutions in addressing rural barriers to healthcare access. By advancing the digital agenda, services can be delivered more efficiently, reducing waiting times and unnecessary travel for routine appointments.
