AHSNs relicensed as key innovation arm of the NHS

NHS England has committed to the long term future of England’s Academic Health Science Networks (AHSNs), as part of a 10-year vision to drive health innovation and stimulate economic growth.

The NHS England Board formally approved a new five year licence for the Innovation Agency and its fellow 14 AHSNs, with an option to roll this on for a further five years to 2028.

Set up in 2013 with a five year licence to encourage health innovation and stimulate economic growth, the AHSNs have spread over 330 innovations across 11,000 locations, benefiting 22 million patients, creating 500 jobs and generating £330m investment for the country.

Ian Dodge, NHS England’s National Director for Strategy and Innovation, said:

“I don’t think there’s a more important question the NHS faces than how can we get better at curating and spreading innovation? And who will serve as the NHS distribution network for innovation? The answer is the AHSNs as they enter their next phase and increasingly work together as a single national network of networks, helping to destroy NHS ‘not invented here’ syndrome.”

AHSNs have a unique place in England’s health system, building collaboration across all sectors including the NHS, social care, public health, universities, NIHR research bodies, charities and industry (from small medical technology enterprises to pharmaceutical companies). AHSNs also support economic growth by helping industry to better meet identified NHS needs.

Innovation Agency Chief Executive Dr Liz Mear said:

"It is fantastic that we can build on the successes of the past five years and the Innovation Agency and all AHSNs look forward to increasing the spread of innovations to improve health and care. Our staff are highly motivated, experienced and excited to be playing an important part in supporting present-day services and building the future NHS and social care."

Professor Mike Hannay, Chair of the AHSN Network said:

“The impacts from our first licence highlight the fantastic potential of the AHSNs and today’s announcement represents a step change in the country’s approach to health innovation and transformation.

“Each AHSN works in its area to support local innovation and transformation, and comes together as a connected national network – this creates a unique formula to improve clinical outcomes, deliver better patient experiences, drive down the cost of care and stimulate economic growth.”