Government Updates NHS IP Guidance to Accelerate Innovation

Patients will gain faster access to ground breaking treatments as the government updates NHS Intellectual Property (IP) guidance for the first time in 23 years. The move cuts red tape, streamlines processes, and unlocks billions in economic growth, positioning the NHS as a global leader in health innovation.

The previous guidance, dating back to 2002, was not designed for modern technologies like AI, often causing delays and missed opportunities. Complex negotiations have slowed the journey from concept to commercialisation, holding back innovations that could benefit patients and the economy.

The new guidance tackles these challenges by simplifying IP rules, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and promoting consistent best practice across the NHS. This will make it easier for innovators to scale solutions nationally, ensuring patients receive cutting-edge treatments faster.

Developed with the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), the update supports the government’s mission to build an NHS fit for the future, as outlined in the 10-Year Health Plan, and create the conditions for local entrepreneurship and grassroots innovation.

More details can be found in the full press release.

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