Policy Impact Event: From Treatment to Prevention in Mental Health Innovation

This timely MHIN meetup examined the shifting healthcare landscape following the Autumn Budget 2024 and the Darzi report, exploring how policy changes toward prevention-focused care will impact mental health innovation. The session addressed whether these policy shifts alone can tackle the growing waiting lists plaguing both private and public healthcare systems.

The event featured two focused panels addressing real-world healthcare challenges. The Waiting Lists and Innovation Panel included Michael Watson from Acumentice providing NHS perspective on waiting times, Kerry Gardner from Problem Shared representing the ADHD supplier side, May Abdalla from Anagram offering the innovator viewpoint, and David Seemungal from RYSE bringing the investor perspective on ADHD solutions.

The Policy Panel explored broader strategic implications with Jake West, Managing Director of Healthcare & Life Sciences at Microsoft UK, discussing corporate policy impacts. Liam Cahill, Digital Advisor, and Joe Connor from Careful AI (former NHS AI Director) provided insights into NHS strategy and policy implementation. Aahuti Rai, Advisor and Venture Partner, rounded out the discussion with commercial growth perspectives.

Using ADHD pathways as a case study, the session examined how rapidly expanding NHS waits are driving innovation in private healthcare offerings, including “right to choose” options and direct-pay assessment services. The meetup highlighted opportunities for digital innovation to improve system transformation and service user journeys, positioning attendees to engage with the evolving prevention-focused healthcare agenda.