A GROUND-breaking study using artificial intelligence and internet enabled devices to improve support for people with dementia and their carers has been chosen as the regional winner of the NHS Future category in the prestigious NHS70 Parliamentary Awards.
TIHM for dementia, a study led by Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, was chosen from hundreds of applicants to be the regional champion for the south of England.
The win followed backing from Chris Grayling, MP for Epsom and Ewell and Transport Secretary; Michael Gove, MP for Surrey Heath and Environment Secretary and Sam Gyimah, East Surrey MP and Universities and Science Minister.
In a letter to Surrey and Borders Partnership, Chris Grayling said: “It was fantastic to read of the pioneering study that you have launched and the ability to improve care and safety for patients through the installed technology.”
The NHS70 Parliamentary Awards recognise those individuals or teams that have made the biggest improvements to health services in their constituencies across 10 categories. At the start of the year, MPs across each region were asked to find and nominate those they believed deserved the award.
TIHM for dementia will now vie with other regional winners from across England for the national award, to be announced at a special ceremony in the Palace of Westminster on July 4.
The TIHM for dementia study is based on a network of internet enabled devices, including sensors, monitors and trackers that are installed in the home and, used in combination with artificial intelligence, enable clinicians to remotely monitor a person’s health and safety 24/7. If a problem is identified, clinicians step in to provide the necessary support.
Dr Helen Rostill, director of innovation and development at Surrey and Borders Partnership, hailed the award as “fantastic recognition” for all those involved in the study, which she added will in the long-term benefit people with dementia and other long-term and complex health needs.