The future of self-health management was the hot topic at a regional healthcare sharing and learning event, hosted by the North West Coast Academic Health Science Network (NWC AHSN) last week.

The ecosystem event, which took place on April 23, discusses a new health related issue every quarter. This quarter’s event debated current models of self-care for residents, digital innovations and new approaches.

The ecosystem brings together representatives from the NHS, local councils, academic organisations and industry to work together and tackle health challenges by encouraging the uptake of connected technological healthcare solutions.

Over 130 people were in attendance at Langtree Park in St Helens to listen to presentations by professionals in the health and social care industry. Speakers at the event included Bruce Hellman, CEO and co-founder of uMotif Digital Health, chairman of the European Connected Health Alliance, Brian O’Connor, and Nicky Runeckles, commercial director at Big White Wall.

Chief executive of the NWC AHSN, Dr Liz Mear gave the opening presentation for the event. Speaking after the event, she said:

“With our rapidly ageing population and the growing demand for more self-care, ensuring that we have the right infrastructure in place to empower people to manage their own health is a key priority.

“This is the fourth ecosystem event we have hosted and we are thrilled with its continued success. These events are helping to encourage much-needed discussion and debate which foster collaborations and further the development of innovative, connected solutions.”

The ecosystem was launched last year by the NWC AHSN in partnership with the European Connected Health Alliance. The next ecosystem events will take place on July 14 and November 25. For more information about future NWC AHSN events, please visit http://www.nwcahsn.nhs.uk/events.php.

The North West Coast (AHSN) is one of 15 academic health science networks in England. One of its roles involves working as part of the NHS to enable innovative products to spread quickly and successfully through the NHS, by supporting would-be suppliers with practical and strategic advice and support as they look to enter the market.