Overview
Four companies specializing in 5G-enabled healthcare solutions have been chosen to receive support from the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI) as part of its 5G Innovation Programme. The selected companies are:
- FloKi
- Aire Innovate
- Walk With Path
- Dynamic Metrics Limited
Support Details
The selected companies will benefit from:
- Access to test-bed facilities at NETPark in Sedgefield
- Technical and regulatory expertise
- Up to £50,000 in business support to expedite their deployment
Real-World Trials
Two of the innovations will be tested in actual healthcare settings, such as hospitals and care homes in the North East of England. This will provide an opportunity to showcase their impact and scalability to key stakeholders in the NHS and social care.
Statements from CPI
Steven Bagshaw, strategic engagement lead at CPI, stated:
“Our ambition with this programme is to demonstrate how high-bandwidth connectivity like 5G can lead to significant improvements in patient flow, hospital discharge, and care coordination. By supporting HealthTech innovators to validate their technologies in real-world settings, we’re helping to create a more connected and efficient healthcare system.”
Funding and Investment
This initiative is funded by the North East Combined Authority (NECA) as part of a broader £2.3 million investment in 5G-enabled innovation in the region. Additionally, a further £5.6 million has been allocated from the UK government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology through the 5G Innovation Regions Programme.
Regional Impact
Phil Witcherley, director of economic growth and regeneration at NECA, emphasized:
“This programme illustrates how the North East is at the forefront of 5G and healthcare technology, fostering regional innovation and economic growth while enhancing outcomes for patients and care providers.”
Selection Process
The participants were chosen through a competitive selection process, inviting businesses specializing in 5G technologies to propose ideas aimed at improving patient flow and discharge services. The £1 million project focuses on exploring how 5G can enhance the delivery of healthcare services in the North East.
Showcase Event
Nine shortlisted companies presented their innovative ideas at a showcase event on April 28, 2025, demonstrating how their technologies could address critical areas such as:
- Patient communication
- Asset tracking
- Patient flow modeling
- Remote monitoring
- Secure data-sharing