The Association of British HealthTech Industries (ABHI) has taken another step in supporting UK HealthTech companies do business in the US. Following its 2017 launch, the ABHI US Accelerator will be expanded to support 30 companies drive their operations in the US.
At present, 16 UK companies are taking advantage of ABHI’s offer, which provides a platform for businesses to strengthen and grow their US activities by utilising the Association’s advice, expertise and connections.
The ABHI US Accelerator has led to over 25 international research collaborations and new business generated for UK industry. Its offer provides access to ABHI’s extensive US network, including a host of in-market specialists available to guide companies on specific issues, including regulation, reimbursement and technology appraisal. The programme also facilitates introductions to hospital, clinical champions and supply chain leaders, enabling companies to liaise directly with decision-makers to discuss their products and services.
Participating companies enjoy full use of ABHI’s dedicated workspace and office at the Dell Medical in Austin, with access to their facilities and support from senior faculty. ABHI’s Managing Director, International, Paul Benton added: “When we first launched the initiative two years ago, the majority of our work was focussed on Texas and its tremendous HealthTech capabilities. Building on these foundations, our expanded offer now delivers a springboard to other states, with numerous activities planned across the wider US over the coming year.”
ABHI’s rolling calendar of trade missions will now be expanded across US – their regularity, and exclusivity to members, enabling companies able to forge more personal and lasting ties with the network of leaders and hospital groups ABHI has cultivated over the years.
Clay Johnston, MD, PhD, dean of Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, said: “By co-locating with us, ABHI members have an opportunity to work directly with our physicians and researchers to develop meaningful solutions to real unmet health needs, all in one of the world’s hottest cities for innovation.”
Lord Prior of Brampton, chair, NHS England, said: “The work that ABHI are doing through their US Accelerator will not just deliver benefits to patients on both sides of the Atlantic, but also generate tax revenues and employment in the UK. I am wholly committed to ensuring that the NHS plays its full part in supporting ABHI and the HealthTech industry.”
Professor the Lord Darzi of Denham, chair, Accelerated Access Collaborative, said: “Technology is one of our greatest allies when looking to drive changes in health care systems, and international adoption is often a key mechanism for ensuring the spread of innovations to patients globally. Initiatives that enable this are critical and I commend the work of ABHI and their US Accelerator Programme in supporting this aim.”
There are currently 25 places available on this programme, with a closing date of 5th August 2019 for companies to commit to joining the 2020 cohort.
For more information, or to apply to join the US Accelerator Programme, contact Alison Cassells alison.cassells@abhi.org.uk
