A note from our Chair

In March 2020, the health and care system embarked on the most challenging year in its history.

Within a matter of days, all 15 Academic Health Science Networks (AHSNs) realigned resources and refocused our existing work to support the national and regional response to coronavirus (COVID-19). We adapted and channelled our efforts to support the system where the need was the greatest, and used our model of operating as a locally connected, co-ordinated national network to add value at pace and scale during this time.

Our 2020/21 Impact Report demonstrates that as a Network we drive forward results in the most relevant areas to make a real difference for patients and service users, as well as healthcare professionals, innovators and NHS organisations. We use our unique position working across all sectors relevant to health and care and our embedded relationships as a catalyst for the greatest impacts, and this year is a demonstration of how effective that can be.

Even in the face of adversity, the system has made some incredible steps forward to adopt innovation and work even more closely with industry.

Professor Gary Ford
Chair of the AHSN Network and Chief Executive of Oxford AHSN

AHSN Network Impact Report cover

Read the Impact Report PDF. You can see more impact stories on the pages below.

2020/21 impacts

  • Innovation Insights: our new webinar series

    The Health Innovation Network is delighted to announce the launch of Innovation Insights, a brand-new webinar series designed to highlight the latest in health innovation, offering attendees valuable insights into the adoption and spread of innovation within the health and care landscape. Each interactive webinar will feature: Expert presentations: Delivered by thought leaders across [...]

  • Meet the Innovators: The Engine of Health and Growth Parliamentary Reception

    The Health Innovation Network, at an event sponsored by Sarah Coombes MP, brought together parliamentarians including Health Minister Karin Smyth MP and Chair of the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee, Chi Onwurah MP to meet with six innovators supported by health innovation networks across the country and their NHS partners. At the Meet the Innovators: [...]

  • Report: Forging a more equitable future through Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement

    The need for fast-paced innovation in healthcare is widely acknowledged. And ensuring that healthcare innovation is shaped by the people it serves remains a pressing priority – one made all the more evident by the growing emphasis on health equity in the 10 Year Health Plan. Patient voices are often cited as central to healthcare [...]