10th November 2023

Showcasing cutting-edge technologies at iCTM Innovation Hub

Today, Vaughan Gething, Welsh Government Minister for Economy visited our innovation Hub at Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board.

The partnership meeting was a showcase of the significant role of regional innovation in driving improvements to health and well-being as well as economic growth.

The Minister was introduced to a diverse range of healthcare innovations in action in the Cwm Taf Morgannwg region; from sustainability and prototyping to manufacturing, and SMART Housing.

The event connected attendees with influential figures in the technology industry; providing a platform for potential collaborations and partnerships.

Addressing attendees, the Minister said “Today has been an excellent opportunity to see the work being done by the hub and the partnerships which have formed since it was established. Innovation is essential not just for its value to our economy, but for its potential to change Wales for the better focussing on societal outcomes.

“The Welsh Government is committed to strengthening innovation and the use of new technologies, which can support a greener Wales, with better health, better jobs and prosperity for all.”

Executive Director Professor Greg Dix, Executive Director of Nursing, Midwifery & Patient Care, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board said:

“Promoting regional innovation is essential for fostering improvements to care and economic growth, and events like today play a critical role in showcasing the impactful advancements made in healthcare through collaborations. I am eager to engage in discussions about these partnerships and their potential for shaping the future.

“Today provided a great opportunity for us to come together to gain valuable knowledge, exchange ideas, and find inspiration to foster innovation, sustainability, and economic development in our respective regions”.

Marc Penny, Director of Improvement and Innovation, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board said:

“Collaboration is vital for driving regional innovation improving the health and well-being of the patients and communities we serve whilst supporting economic growth. The iCTM Ministerial visit showcases the power of partnerships in achieving impactful results and supporting the Welsh Governments A Healthier Wales strategy. We are excited to share our story and bring awareness to the possibilities of regional innovation.”

SMART Housing

The event was an opportunity to showcase an innovative project; a highly collaborative project that aims to improve health and wellbeing for the local population of Cwm Taf Morgannwg.

The project utilises a data-driven approach to identify the optimum areas for investment in energy efficiency measures in Cwm Taf Morgannwg, to reduce healthcare costs and improve life expectancy among vulnerable populations. The digital platform links housing, energy efficiency, and health/healthcare data at an individual and household level to track and analyse patterns in order to identify key areas of need and develop sustainable approaches to benefit patients.

SMART Hosing aims to promote the value of incorporating health and prevention measures into housing improvements by utilising improvement schemes that are available to residents within CTM, ultimately creating healthier and more resilient communities.

Fostering stronger links between Wales and India

This was a key discussion today, specifically supporting and mentoring Indian medical technology companies. Through this visit, there is anticipation to spark further collaborations between University Wales Trinity Saint David, University of South Wales, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, and T-Hub India. This exchange of ideas and expertise has the potential to drive innovation and growth in both countries’ technology sectors.

We wish to thank our key stakeholders for their involvement:

Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB| iCTM (Improvement and Innovation Cwm Taf Morgannwg) | Regional Innovation Coordination Hub (RIC HUB)| University of South Wales| Elite solutions| NWSSP| Gwalia Healthcare| Cardiff and Vale Regional Innovation Coordination Hub| T-Hub India| Really Agile Consulting | Hafod Housing.

For further information on any of these innovations, please email (Lauren.Ware@wales.nhs.uk)