NHS Lothian has awarded Infix Support, a Scottish healthtech business, its first contract. Dr Matthew Freer, a consultant anaesthetist, founded the company in 2019. It has developed cloud-based software, infix: Schedule, to improve the efficiency of surgical operating rooms and address patient waiting list backlogs, as well as a virtual portal, infix: Preop, to optimize the patient pathway.
The contract with NHS Lothian follows a successful clinical trial with NHS Lanarkshire in which Infix increased operating room utilization by 27%. An additional independent evaluation conducted by the University of Stirling discovered that infix: Schedule, which is used by NHS Lothian, has the potential to increase theatre efficiency by up to 37%.
“NHS Lothian has showed an innovative approach around the use of digital innovation to assist tackle the dilemma of extended waiting periods for scheduled surgery,” stated Dr Matthew Freer, CEO and Founder of Infix Support.
With a backlog of individuals waiting for much-needed surgery in a post-pandemic environment, it is a dilemma that has never been more pressing. We are now in a position to assist alleviate one of society’s most serious illnesses while saving the NHS cash and relieving pressure on current resources.”
“We know that waiting longer for surgery may cause distress and deterioration in patients’ health,” said Calum Campbell, Chief Executive Officer of NHS Lothian.
