Recently, the Newcastle Hospitals Charity hosted the first in a series of ‘in conversation’ events, where the inaugural occasion was titled Robotics in Healthcare: An Extension of Excellence.
This event brought together an impressive panel of experts, healthcare professionals, innovators and a curious public to explore the transformative potential of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) in the medical field.
As the Chief Innovation Officer at Waymark, I had the privilege of participating in the event alongside Mr. Andrew James Bowey, a Consultant Orthopaedic Spinal Surgeon, Professor Richard Brady, a Consultant Surgeon and Charlotte Fox, the Business Innovation Manager, all from Newcastle Hospitals.
Each brought invaluable insights into the practical applications of advanced technologies in healthcare settings.
The evolution of robotics in surgery
The event kicked off with a comprehensive overview of how robotics and AI are reshaping patient care, offering new avenues for precision, efficiency and enhanced outcomes.
Mr. Bowey and Professor Brady shared compelling firsthand experiences with robotic-assisted surgeries, demonstrating how these technologies are not merely tools but integral extensions of their surgical skills.
They presented striking images of robot-assisted surgery scenes, underscoring the precision and efficiency these systems bring to complex procedures.
From the latest advancements in pediatric robotic surgery to the challenges and opportunities in training new surgeons, Professor Brady emphasised the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the field.
His reflections also touched on the necessity of balancing technological advancements with essential surgical skills, ensuring that future surgeons are well-versed in both traditional and robotic techniques.
Their accounts highlighted the significant advancements in robotic surgery, underscoring the potential for improved patient outcomes and faster recovery times.
A vision of Health 3.0
I presented the concept of "Health 3.0," a paradigm shift towards integrating advanced digital technologies such as big data analytics, AI, machine learning and the Internet of Things (IoT), into healthcare.
At the event, I also introduced the evolutionary concept of "Making TRACS"—an acronym designed to illustrate the progressive integration of technology into healthcare. This framework outlines five key shifts in technological adoption: Touch, Remote, Automation, Circumvention, and Self-Service.
This vision encompasses a transition from basic services to hyper-automation, emphasising the importance of self-service systems that empower patients and foster proactive involvement in their healthcare journeys.
Engaging industry and overcoming adoption barriers
Our panel discussion also addressed the significant barriers to innovation within the NHS. From the complexity of navigating procurement processes to the conservative nature of healthcare adoption, the speakers provided a candid look at the hurdles facing new technologies.
We explored how smaller, agile companies might offer innovative solutions that integrate seamlessly into the existing healthcare infrastructure, potentially accelerating the adoption of new technologies.
The future: a collaborative effort
The Q&A session sparked engaging dialogue with the audience, including healthcare professionals eager to explore new technologies and industry representatives seeking to understand NHS needs better.
The discussions highlighted a shared commitment to improving patient care through innovation, with an acknowledgement of the complexities involved.
The engagement from the audience was remarkable, reflecting a growing interest and optimism about the potential of these technologies to revolutionise healthcare.
Conclusion
A key takeaway from the event was the vital support provided by Newcastle Hospitals Charity, which has played a crucial role in acquiring cutting-edge robotics systems for the hospital. This support, made possible by generous donors, reflects the charity's dedication to advancing medical excellence and innovation.
At Waymark, we share this commitment. Our mission is to leverage the latest technologies to enhance healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes. Participating in events like these not only allows us to share our vision but also to learn from the experiences and insights of our peers.
Robotics in Healthcare: An Extension of Excellence was more than just an event; it was a celebration of the strides we’re making and a glimpse into the future of medicine. We are excited to continue this journey, pushing boundaries of what's possible and exploring new frontiers in healthcare innovation.
To Newcastle Hospitals and to all who attended, thank you for being part of this enlightening discussion. We look forward to continuing this vital conversation.
