In this overview of our activities and achievements in the second half of 2019 we focus on some big numbers: 250,000 YouTube views, 12,000 people accessing free online sleep support, 190 GPs and pharmacists trained to cut medication errors, eight start-up companies completing the first Oxford AHSN Accelerator programme …
July
We found new ways to highlight our work with the launch of an Oxford AHSN app and mini-website focusing on key elements from our latest annual report and business plan. To get the app search ‘Oxford AHSN’ (Apple or android). The highlights website can be found at: https://oxfordahsnhighlights.uk/
Our series of video guides for patients about to undergo various diagnostic scans passed 250,000 views on YouTube.
August
Twin baby boys born extremely prematurely who starred in a video we made to promote the AHSNs’ national programme to increase the uptake of magnesium sulphate in pre-term labour to reduce the risk of cerebral palsy celebrated their first birthday.
Our Chief Executive and stroke expert Professor Gary Ford co-authored an implementation guide to support the spread of mechanical thrombectomy, a game-changing treatment for acute stroke. Read more here.
September
The eighth cohort got under way for our practical innovators Masters-level course. So far more than 200 people from trusts across our region have taken part in the programme. The next one starting in February has a particular focus on primary care professionals. Apply by 20 January. Details here.
We hosted a workshop which was well-attended by people working in the NHS, research and industry – as well as members of the public – to agree priorities following a national survey of innovation and research needs published earlier in the year.
October
In the first year of a unique trial in the Thames Valley more than 12,000 people had taken advantage of free access to online support to improve their sleep without pills or potions – with more than 4,500 going on to start a personalised online CBT programme via sleepio.com/NHS. These people slept an extra 5.5 hours per week on average. Other benefits included reduced stress, less use of sleep remedies, improved productivity and reduced absenteeism. Read more here.
Dr Charlotte Lee, the UK Director of Big Health – the company behind Sleepio, said: “We are extremely grateful for the investment that the Oxford AHSN has given to Big Health and we hope that we’ll be able to continue using Sleepio to improve mental health at-scale.”
November
200 GP practices implemented PINCER, an initiative to reduce medication errors and one of seven national programmes supported by all AHSNs. 190 GPs and pharmacists have received training coordinated by the Oxford AHSN. Read more here.
Our first Accelerator programme culminated in a pitch day with eight start-up businesses trying to persuade an expert panel from health, industry and investment communities to support their innovations. Results are awaited. More here. We also launched eMaps, our online market access guide for innovators.
December
Extreme pre-term birth in the right place – read our BMJ research paper here.
All acute hospitals in our region are now using UroLift, a minimally invasive treatment backed by AHSNs and NHS England. Read more here.
- Read part 1 of our 2019 review here