NIHR HealthTech Research Centre Rehabilitation
Transforming rehabilitation through technology
On 13 November 2023, Nottingham was named as one of 14 new HealthTech Research Centres by the National Institute for Health and Care Research.
The new HealthTech Research Centre for Rehabilitation started on 1 April 2024. It is introducing new technologies for adults and children, by bringing together expertise from the NHS, universities, medical technology companies and patients and the public. It is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) for five years.
What we aim to achieve
Enable patients to experience new technologies in a purpose-built centre of excellence
Working with the National Rehabilitation Centre to develop technology which will enable patients to recover faster and better after serious injury or illness. The HRC will support access to innovative technologies.
Increasing industry engagement and giving access to expertise to support developers. Nottingham and the East Midlands is already a successful test-bed for medical technologies. We have the capability and, through the NRC, increasing capacity to support developers, alongside current service provision.
Benefitting patients in greatest need through technology. By working with patients to develop technologies which can be used at home, we will support greater independence and empower individuals to shape their own recovery.
Widen participation and adoption of technologies in underserved communities. Participation rates in rehabilitation are lower for patients at social or economic disadvantage. The HRC will work with partners who deliver rehabilitation in a wide range of settings, including some of the most deprived local authorities in England. This collaboration, therefore, is well-placed to ensure technology is appropriate and supported.
Realise the personal, community and social benefits of vocational rehabilitation. Technology can provide faster, more effective support to return to work, benefitting individuals, families and communities, as well as the wider economy. For example, each year 1.4 million people attend A&E with head injuries; many need rehabilitation.