Barriers, Facilitators and Perspectives of Reverse Innovation in NHS England

Abstract

Given the rising budget constraints facing NHS overall, the aim of this study was to assess the barriers, facilitators and attitudes towards Reverse Innovation in NHS England. In this study Reverse Innovation was defined as a healthcare innovation from a Low or Middle Income Country (LMIC) adapted and implemented in a High Income Country. Eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants in order to ascertain their experiences with Reverse Innovation in NHS England. A thematic analysis identified systematic barriers to Reverse Innovation were identified as well as potential barriers to Reverse Innovation. Innovation Vetting protocols and procedures were identified as a key barrier to Reverse Innovation with the NHS. Given this, Barriers to Reverse Innovation in NHS England appear to be similar to those faced by other types of innovation. Recommendations generated for NHS England include streamlining the innovation vetting process as well as ensuring that formal partnerships, such as THET are indeed reciprocal. Recommendations for LMIC innovators include highlighting the frugality of their innovations and partnering with an Academic Health Science Network or similar organization before entering the NHS market.