To make sure that care continues to be there for those dealing with life-threatening situations, NHS staff are going to prioritise emergency as well as urgent care, with several routine appointments as well as procedures for patients being postponed every day.

Apparently, the NHS happens to be dealing with the longest-ever strike action by the UK junior doctors, with more than five consecutive days starting on July 7.

This is also followed by the first walkout demonstrated by the consultants in more than 10 years, starting July 20, and radiographers striking from July 25 to 27.

It is well worth noting that individuals who need NHS care must make use of the services as they most likely would: A&E and 999 when it comes to a life-threatening emergency, and NHS 111 online when it comes to other health concerns.

Notably, patients with appointments who have not been contacted otherwise must attend as normal, and community services like GPs and pharmacies are also mostly unaffected by the strike.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, the NHS national medical director, suggests that they will now witness an industrial action on 11 out of the forthcoming 14 days, and hence there is an incredibly busy and disruptive period for the NHS that lies ahead. As the staff continue to work tirelessly in order to offer patients the care they long to have, the next strike is expected to be longest and most disruptive yet. It is well to be noted that strikes have already impacted almost 600,000 hospital appointments throughout the NHS, with many more expected to be affected in the weeks to come.

In the next couple of weeks, people must still seek the care they need by calling dedicated health lines.

According to Sir Powis, their staff is already doing what they can, but they really cannot continue like this. Action is indeed having a significant impact on patients who are in need of routine care, with an increasing effect on NHS services as well as the hard-working staff as they try to maintain their services and also address a record-breaking backlog.

Notably, a previous action by the junior doctors saw 21000 to 24000 staff off duty per day because of industrial action.

Industrial action in June by the junior doctors witnessed 106,000 hospital appointments disrupted in three days. At present, it has been more than five days since the junior doctors have gone on strike, and therefore, it is likely that more appointments are going to be disrupted with the consultant strike also making its way.

COVID-19 has been one of the catalysts for the rise of telehealth, and although there is a push to make it have a bigger role when it comes to healthcare in the years to come, just how big it is going to be remains to be seen.

A white paper rolled out by Epic Research looks at how consistent telehealth visits lead to a second telehealth or in-person visit and infers that the answer to that depends in large part on the specialty. The data was reviewed from more than 40 million specialty and 32 million primary care visits that took place between January 2022 and March 2023.

Researchers went on to find out that for most of the specialty patients, the scenario was that they would most likely have an in-person follow-up visit approximately 90 days after the in-person visit rather than a telehealth visit. Furthermore, it was mental health that saw the biggest difference when it came to follow-up visits between the initial in-person as well as telehealth visits: 10% of the telehealth visits and 40% of the in-person visits with a follow-up visit in 90 days.

As per the CMO of the research firm, this study enables them to show payers that telehealth can go on to offer something that can stand alone and must be opted for when gauging whether to pay for the telehealth visits in the future.

When it comes to primary care, there was a gap of just two percentage points that separated the follow-up visits when it came to in-person and telehealth visits. Internal medicine and also Paediatrics were more likely to end up having a follow-up visit after a telehealth visit that took place initially.

The white paper mentioned that family medicine saw an almost equivalent follow-up rate between telehealth and office visits that have an in-person follow-up in 90 days.

Outcomes arrive as lawmakers put forth their views whether expanded telehealth usage rolled out across the pandemic should continue. As of now, these flexibilities will be expiring in 2024.

As per the study, these findings go on to suggest that telehealth can continue to play a significant role when it comes to care delivery throughout specialties without having to have additional visits for many patients. That said, there may be differences within the patient populations that seek care via telehealth as well as in-person visits, like age, condition acuity, and other potential elements that may very well influence the likelihood of the requirement of follow-up care.

It is well to be noted that pain medicine, physical medicine, mental health, and rehabilitation had a minimum of a 20% higher follow-up rate post an office visit as compared to a telehealth visit. Podiatry telehealth visits, on the other hand, had an in-person follow-up visit rate of 13% higher than office visits.

Apparently, telehealth usage last year and in early 2023 was not frequent when it came to most of the specialties, with just sleep medicine as well as mental health specialties executing a minimum of 20% of the encounters by way of telehealth, the white paper confirmed.

The quest for sharper vision has always been a significant aspect of human health and well-being. Innovations in technology have led to a dramatic shift in vision correction, empowering sight in new and exciting ways. Technology’s impact on vision correction is expansive and transformative, from sophisticated lenses to non-invasive surgical techniques. 

Understandably, the integral role of key service providers in this field cannot be underestimated. For instance, Revision, an eminent eye clinic, is making strides in this space. Through a combination of state-of-the-art technology and expert clinical practices, they offer comprehensive eye care services that are revolutionizing the way vision defects are treated. This impact sets a robust path toward a world where traditional visual aids like glasses and contact lenses might no longer be the only solutions for vision correction. 

New Generation Contact Lenses And Glasses 

Today’s contact lenses and glasses are vastly different from the ones that existed decades ago. Developments in technology have made them more comfortable, effective, and even stylish. For instance, some contact lenses can now correct astigmatism, an advancement that was unthinkable just a few years ago. 

Transitioning to the realm of glasses, the story is equally compelling. The emergence of digital lenses has improved visual accuracy and comfort. Meanwhile, progressive lenses provide a seamless transition between near and far vision. 

Non-Invasive Surgical Techniques 

If you’ve ever dreamed of ditching your glasses or contact lenses, non-invasive surgical techniques could be the answer. Procedures like LASIK and PRK have become commonplace thanks to advancements in laser technology. These procedures reshape the cornea, correcting refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. 

The latest addition to these techniques is SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction). It’s less invasive and has fewer complications, making vision correction surgery safer and more accessible. 

Smart Implants And Bionic Eyes 

As we shift gears towards the future, smart implants and bionic eyes open up new horizons. Smart implants like the accommodating intraocular lens can change shape like a natural lens, providing clear vision at all distances. 

Furthermore, there’s no shortage of research in the bionic eye realm. Bionic eyes could offer a new lease on life for people with severe vision impairment. The technology uses a camera and an implant to send signals to the brain, which are then interpreted as visual information. 

Portable Diagnostic Devices 

Often, early diagnosis is the key to preventing vision loss. Fortunately, new technology has made diagnosing vision problems easier and more accessible. Portable devices now allow for quick and efficient eye examinations, eliminating the need for bulky equipment and potentially catching problems earlier. 

Artificial Intelligence In Vision Correction 

Artificial intelligence (AI) has an increasingly crucial role in vision correction. For instance, AI systems can assist in diagnosing vision-related disorders with high accuracy, often catching conditions that the human eye may miss. 

Moreover, AI-powered apps have been developed to assist individuals with low vision or blindness. These apps can describe surroundings, read text, and recognize faces, enabling users to navigate the world more easily. 

Adaptive Eyewear 

Imagine a pair of glasses that adapt to your visual needs automatically. Sounds like a fantasy? Not anymore. Adaptive eyewear technology has made significant strides recently, bringing this concept closer to reality. 

Using electronically adjustable lenses, adaptive eyewear can change focus in real-time based on what the wearer is viewing. This offers a personalized visual experience, potentially reducing the strain of switching between different prescription glasses for different activities. 

Blue Light Filtering Technology 

As digital devices have become integral to our lives, the concern over the harmful effects of blue light has grown. Thankfully, technology has stepped in to address this issue as well. 

Blue light filtering lenses have become increasingly popular. These lenses filter out the blue light emitted by digital screens, helping to reduce digital eye strain and maintain overall eye health. Some software even changes the color temperature of screens based on the time of day to lessen exposure to blue light. 

Teleophthalmology 

The rise of telehealth has not left vision care behind. Teleophthalmology enables patients to access eye care services remotely, significantly improving accessibility for those in rural or underserved areas. 

Through video conferencing, patients can consult with their eye care providers from their homes. Additionally, some apps offer vision tests that can be taken remotely, further enhancing the convenience of eye care. 

3D Printed Eyewear 

The revolution in 3D printing technology has also extended to the realm of vision correction. 3D-printed eyewear offers an exciting prospect for customization.

With 3D printing, glasses can be tailored to fit a person’s unique facial features perfectly. This personalized approach ensures better comfort and can potentially improve the effectiveness of the prescription. 

The Promising Future Of Virtual And Augmented Reality 

Finally, don’t overlook the potential of virtual and augmented reality in the vision correction field. These technologies can simulate visual impairments, allowing eyecare professionals to experience their patients’ vision firsthand. This capability could lead to better understanding, empathy, and improved treatment plans.

Indeed, as we gaze into the future, it’s clear that the possibilities for vision correction are vast. Technology continues to empower sight, bringing us closer to a world where visual impairments are less of a barrier. And as these innovations continue to develop, imagining what could be next on the horizon is exciting.

Conclusion 

Vision correction is experiencing an unparalleled revolution, empowered by significant technological advancements. This transformative journey, from revised lenses to bionic eyes, is a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of improving lives. As we look to the future, one thing is for sure – our sight has never been in better hands.

As our understanding of the human body and its healing mechanisms advances, therapeutic modalities like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections have gained increasing prominence across various medical fields. This innovative approach taps into the body’s innate healing potential, which may be useful in various medical applications. 

PRP is produced when blood extracted from the patient is centrifuged or spun at speeds high enough to separate the blood’s components into three layers: red blood cells at the bottom, white blood cells, platelets in the middle (known as the ‘buffy coat’), and plasma (the liquid component of blood) at the top.  

Depending on the procedure or the specific PRP preparation protocol, the provider might add an activating agent to the PRP to trigger the platelets, causing them to release their growth factors. Certain PRP kits utilize fibrin polymerization, known as PRFM, the latest progression in this treatment, guaranteeing the platelets’ best concentration, survival, and sustained release.  

Platelets are known for their role in clotting. But they also release growth factors and cytokines, proteins that aid in cell communication and vitality.

This is why PRP is often referred to as an anti-aging serum. It is then injected into an injured area of the body, like a tendon, ligament, muscle, or joint, where it may stimulate tissue recovery by boosting cell proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), and attraction of stem cells to the site of injury.  

This substance is not as esoteric as it sounds. Here are some of its most common medical applications:

1. Orthopedics 

PRP injections have revolutionized orthopedic treatments, especially in sports medicine. They treat many acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries, including tendon injuries, ligament sprains, and muscle strains. PRP fosters tissue healing, diminishes inflammation and pain, and expedites recovery.

2. Aesthetic Medicine  

In cosmetic dermatology, PRP is a natural alternative to synthetic fillers. Famously known as the ‘vampire facelift,’ it revitalizes the skin by boosting collagen production, enhancing skin texture, diminishing wrinkles, and adding volume.

3. Hair Loss Treatment 

PRP has shown promise in treating hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness. When injected into the scalp, the increased levels of growth factors can stimulate hair follicle activity and promote new growth, offering a potential treatment option for those struggling with hair loss. 

4. Wound Healing

PRP has demonstrated enormous potential in managing difficult-to-heal wounds, such as diabetic ulcers. By introducing a high concentration of growth factors to the wound, the serum may expedite wound healing and tissue regeneration while lowering the risk of infection. 

5. Dental And Oral Surgery  

PRP is used in various procedures in dentistry, such as dental implant surgery, bone grafting, and periodontal therapy. The growth factors in PRP promote bone regeneration, aid in soft tissue healing, and decrease post-operative pain and swelling. 

6. Ophthalmology  

Emerging evidence points towards the potential benefits of PRP in treating ocular surface disorders. PRP eye drops have been used in managing conditions like dry eye syndrome, corneal ulcers, and post-refractive surgery, aiding in epithelial healing and reducing symptoms. 

7. Pain Management 

PRP therapy offers a promising alternative to conventional treatments for chronic pain conditions. Experts have used it in managing osteoarthritis, particularly knee and hip joints, by reducing pain, improving joint function, and possibly delaying disease progression. 

8. Neurosurgery  

Early research suggests PRP may assist in nerve regeneration, providing possible benefits in neurosurgical applications. While studies are still developing, it’s a promising field that warrants further investment.

9. Cardiac Surgery

The role of PRP in promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration has led to an interest in its application in cardiac surgery. Preliminary studies suggest an ability to aid myocardial repair following ischemic injury. 

While PRP therapy has shown interesting results across these applications, it’s vital to note that the science is still evolving. The effectiveness can vary based on preparation techniques, concentration, and individual patient factors. As it is now, it must be considered part of a comprehensive treatment plan rather than a standalone therapy. 

Takeaways

In summary, PRP therapy is a powerful tool in modern medicine that harnesses the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Its applications are extensive and continually expanding, transforming the treatment landscape across numerous medical fields.

Still, more high-quality research is needed to understand the mechanism fully and to establish the standard protocols for its use. The effectiveness of PRP might depend on factors like the area of the body being treated, the overall health of the patient, and the specific method and concentration of the PRP injection.

Should it be your choice of treatment? Consult experts first to weigh all of the options.

Even a seemingly safe and simple surgery may carry a small risk of adverse outcomes. The risk, however, varies from patient to patient. The Singapore General Hospital (SGH) has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) tool for risk prediction which may determine specific level of care that a patient needs and possible complications post-surgery, or if it would be safer for the surgery to be postponed.

Combined Assessment of Risk Encountered in Surgery-Machine Learning , or CARES-ML in short, has shown a prediction accuracy of over 90 per cent during testing. It extracts a patient’s medical history, physical status classification, and investigative test results such as x-rays and blood tests from the hospital system to generate a surgery risk report and a score. The higher the score, the higher the risk of an adverse outcome after surgery.

Principal investigator, Associate Professor Hairil Rizal, Senior Consultant, Anaesthesiology, SGH, said, “CARES-ML augments the anaesthesiologist and surgeon in their assessment of each patient, and enhances the clinical team’s decision-making and recommendations on the perioperative plan of care for the patient. This ultimately improves patient outcomes and enhances patient safety.”

Patients, who are scheduled for surgery, must first be assessed if they have been optimised to undergo one. This assessment is typically done by an anaesthesiologist and surgeon about 10 days before surgery so that timely and appropriate interventions can be taken, for instance, to address anaemia which patients may not be aware of. Such patients have an increased risk of complications, including infection, stroke or kidney injury.

The pre-surgery assessment may in future be augmented by CARES-ML. It is built upon the Hospital’s CARES calculator developed in 2018 to evaluate surgical risk in the local population, and has been refined and validated again on a local dataset of nearly 100,000 surgical patients from 2015 to 2022.

Even while the tool is being studied for its effectiveness and impact on surgery outcomes, the team of anaesthesiologists, surgeons and biostatisticians is already working on expanding the model to also predict other outcomes such as length of hospital stay, and risk of pneumonia and stroke. They are also looking at the possibility of leveraging generative AI such as ChatGPT to assign a patient’s physical status classification level which CARES-ML also incorporates for its prediction. This came after Prof Hairil Rizal and his team discovered that the AI chatbot was comparable in terms of accuracy, but more consistent than human assessors in his other study based on 10 standardised hypothetical patient scenarios.

For his work on CARES-ML, Prof Hairil Rizal received the Health Promotion, Preventive Health, Population Health and Health Services Research Clinician Scientist (Investigator) award by National Medical Research Council this year. His team’s study findings on using ChatGPT for physical status classification will be published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia in July 2023.

VentureBlick, a global venture platform for healthcare innovation, announces the successful closure of its first two deals, securing a total of US$2.6 million for two startups despite a challenging funding environment. This achievement is a testament of VentureBlick’s distinctive approach of engaging the global medical community to validate, support, and invest in early-stage healthcare startups.

Exceeding expectations, VentureBlick raised US$1.6 million for NousQ, a Singapore-based startup revolutionizing glue ear surgery with the world’s first smart robotic handheld device. This oversubscription, surpassing the initial target by 60%, demonstrates investors’ strong confidence in medical innovations that address real medical needs and possess a clear clinical use case. The second deal, for a China-based healthcare startup, closed at over US$1 million. Both startups were put through a three-step vetting process, which includes systematic review by medical and industry experts from respective areas across the globe, before they were listed on the platform.

Dr Lynne Lim, Founder & CEO of NousQ, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to have surpassed our fundraising target on the VentureBlick platform. This US$1.6 million bridge funding is a significant step towards our ultimate fundraising goal of US$5.5 million for our current ongoing Series A fundraise. Getting such positive responses from fellow doctors and investors around the world means a lot to our team. Equally exciting is the opportunity to tap into VentureBlick’s extensive healthcare expertise and resources.”

Building on this success, VentureBlick is evolving its business model into a ‘Super Incubator’ model, which provides an end-to-end, fully customizable solution to help build, test, and market medtech innovations, with successful exits or commercialisation as the ultimate goal.

Chris Lee, Founder & CEO of VentureBlick, emphasized the importance of this evolution, stating, “Medtech presents unique challenges and opportunities. We found that existing venture support models like incubator or accelerator programs often lack industry-specific focus or cover only certain aspects or growth stages. This leaves significant gaps, uncertainties, and risks to all stakeholders involved in a startup’s development. Super Incubator for VentureBlick is not another of those programs, but how we are going to redefine medtech venture building. What we offer medtech startups is a tailored medtech-centric ecosystem and full-slate support model to enable their innovations to reach the market in the shortest time possible and create most tangible impact.”

VentureBlick will officially launch its Super Incubator in September 2023 and is currently raising funds for the new model. The Super Incubator promises to streamline the startup journey from ideation and testing to venture building and market success. Its comprehensive offering includes product demand validation at the very beginning, fundraising, design and manufacturing, healthcare partnerships, product trial and assessment, health economics and reimbursement strategy, as well as market mapping and access.

As part of its new model, VentureBlick is also launching its medical advisory business, offering expertise in evaluating investments or M&A deals from a medical perspective on behalf of corporate ventures, VCs, or government bodies. One of the largest corporate conglomerates in the world has retained VentureBlick to assess its potential investment deals in the healthcare sector. They will tap into VentureBlick’s global advisory network, which consists of more than 1,000 advisors who have been individually screened and vetted from more than 50 countries covering over 30 specialty areas. The advisor pool will be further expanded to 3,000 by the end of 2023.

With a strong foundation established and an impressive pilot programme, VentureBlick is well-positioned to continue driving and supporting innovation in the healthcare sector with its new business model, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes worldwide.