An innovative AI-supported spirometry service is helping to improve respiratory diagnostics across North East and North Cumbria. By combining artificial intelligence with specialist clinical expertise, the programme is increasing access to high-quality spirometry testing, supporting healthcare staff, and helping patients receive earlier diagnosis of respiratory conditions. The approach is reducing pressure on the workforce while strengthening clinical capacity, ensuring more people can access timely, accurate care closer to home. It is a great example of how innovation can support both staff and patients, delivering practical improvements in healthcare services across the region. Read the full case study in the NENC Innovation Library: AI‑Supported Spirometry & workforce transformation
County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT) is transforming staff education through innovative learning methods, including virtual reality (VR), gamification and immersive simulation experiences. Designed to make learning more engaging and memorable, these approaches help staff build confidence, develop skills and apply learning in realistic scenarios. By moving beyond traditional training methods, CDDFT is creating interactive experiences that support workforce development and ultimately improve patient care. The initiative demonstrates how technology and creativity can enhance learning, increase participation and help healthcare professionals retain knowledge more effectively. It also highlights the potential for innovative education techniques to support a skilled, adaptable and future-ready workforce. This inspiring example will be of […]
A new case study from Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria (HI NENC) highlights how a simple digital solution is improving rota planning for resident doctors – saving time, reducing administrative burden, and supporting safer staffing. Developed at South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, the electronic changeover form replaces a paper-based process that was often time-consuming, incomplete and difficult to manage. The new web-based system enables anaesthetic trainees and rota teams to submit and process information more quickly and accurately, improving the overall efficiency of rota production. The solution supports better workforce planning by capturing clearer information about availability, working patterns and training needs. This helps ensure rotas are […]
Applications are now open for Cohort 6 North Cumbria School of Generalism, delivered by North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS FT (NCIC). The School of Generalism is hosted by NCIC on behalf of NHS England North East, and is open to staff working across healthcare organisations in North Cumbria, aiming to equip learners with common concepts, understanding and language to help improve patient care. The Trust will again be delivering an innovative program giving the opportunity for up to 30 multi-professional, multi-disciplinary, clinical and administrative/management staff to learn alongside each other. They will gain a common language and shared skills to enable them to better understand, navigate and deliver the increasingly […]
University Hospitals Tees (UHT) has developed Anatostat, a clinically led innovation using bespoke 3D anatomical models to support complex orthopaedic surgical planning, training and patient communication. By converting 2D CT scans into precise, life‑size 3D models, Anatostat enables surgeons to rehearse procedures in advance, select the right implants with greater confidence and reduce uncertainty during surgery. The service aligns with NHS priorities around quality, safety, efficiency and sustainability and is now used as standard practice for complex cases at UHT, as well as by orthopaedic teams across England. Since launch, over 100 anatomic models have been produced. Independent evaluation has demonstrated improved clinical outcomes, significant time savings in theatre, and […]
We’re pleased to share that a new Digital Inclusion Awareness Training module is now live on the Boost learning academy. As digital tools and services become an increasingly important part of health and care, it’s vital that we recognise and address the barriers that can prevent people from accessing them. This short, practical eLearning module is designed to build awareness of digital inclusion and support colleagues to take a more inclusive approach in their everyday work. About the module The Digital Inclusion Awareness Training course equips learners with the knowledge and understanding needed to recognise the significance of digital inclusion in health and care settings. The module explores common […]
As part of the ongoing work of the Digital Accelerators for Social Care Steering Group, Health Innovation NENC (HI NENC) and partners have organised a series of four practical webinars designed to support digital adoption in care homes, for care providers, and for health partners. These sessions will share real‑world insights on improving communication, streamlining processes, and enhancing resident care through lived experience and practical digital solutions. Upcoming webinars Wednesday 18 March 2026, 10:30–11:15am – GP Connect. An accessible introduction to GP Connect and how it enables safe, efficient information‑sharing between care settings to support continuity of care. Register here… Wednesday 25 March 2026, 10:30–11:15am – Cyber Security. A […]
As we welcome a new year and new opportunities for healthier living, there’s no better time to highlight the support available to people across our region who want to make meaningful, lasting lifestyle changes. The NHS Digital Weight Management Programme (DWMP) continues to offer a free, convenient and flexible way for adults to take control of their health in 2026. What is the DWMP? The NHS Digital Weight Management Programme is a 12‑week, app‑based intervention designed to support adults living with obesity who also have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, and/or hypertension. The programme provides tailored guidance on: Nutrition Physical activity Positive behaviour change Accessible on a smartphone, […]
Newcastle Hospitals has introduced new AI technology that identifies preventable blood clots in patients much faster, helping reduce harm and improve safety. Blood clots are the leading cause of preventable hospital deaths. Previously, specialist nurses manually searched through hundreds of scan reports each day – a process that could take up to 10 hours a week per nurse. Since introducing the AI system in August 2024, the Trust has seen a 56% reduction in avoidable clots among at‑risk inpatients. The software automatically scans electronic reports and produces a daily dashboard of newly detected clots, allowing teams to investigate and treat patients sooner. Nurses report the system is saving around two […]
The North East and Yorkshire Leadership Academy (NEYLA) are excited to announce a new cohort of Future-Fit Leadership – a dynamic series of six standalone masterclasses created to inspire fresh thinking, share proven best practices, and explore the possibilities that lie ahead. Delivered as focused micro-learning sessions, each masterclass equips participants with practical ideas they can immediately apply within their own practice and with their teams. The programme: Session 1: Career Agility in the NHS – Thriving in a Changing Landscape Tuesday 27 January 2026, 12.30pm–2.00pm Session 2: Adaptive Leadership Mindset Thursday 26 February 2026, 12.30pm–2.00pm Session 3: Psychological Maturity – The Next Step in High-Performance Leadership Monday 23 March […]
