Medical Intelligence Systems at NPAG – Tackling Waiting Times and Sterile Reprocessing Challenges with Innovation
We were honoured to be invited to present at the National Performance Advisory Group (NPAG) event, “Addressing Patient Procedure Waiting Times and Sterile Reprocessing Challenges.” It was a privilege to share the stage with healthcare leaders and innovators, and to contribute to the national conversation on how we can collectively improve patient care and operational efficiency across the NHS.
Our Director, Darren Crawt, brought decades of experience in traceability solutions to the discussion, highlighting the urgent need for smarter, more integrated systems in sterile services. With NHS waiting lists reaching a staggering 7.46 million by late 2024, and sterile reprocessing departments under immense pressure, the time for change is now.
The Challenge: A System Under Strain
The NHS continues to face unprecedented demand, with elective surgery backlogs and increased reliance on just-in-time reprocessing. This has led to:
- Increased staff sickness and reduced morale in sterile services
- A surge in loan kit usage, often lacking proper traceability
- Inefficiencies caused by outdated, siloed traceability systems
Our Message: Integration, Innovation, and Insight
At Medical Intelligence Systems, we believe the solution lies in seamless integration, cloud-based platforms, wireless connectivity, and mobile agility. Our presentation focused on how modern traceability systems can:
- Integrate with washers, autoclaves, EHRs, and asset management systems
- Eliminate paper-heavy processes and reduce environmental impact
- Enable real-time data access and dashboard reporting
- Support mobile workflows via smart devices and EDAs
- Future-Proofing with RFID and AI
- We also explored how dual-frequency RFID and AI can revolutionise sterile reprocessing:
- RFID enables closed-loop tracking from reprocessing to theatre
- AI supports predictive maintenance, automated quality control, and workflow optimisation
- These technologies not only improve efficiency but also enhance patient safety and reduce costs
Inspiring the Next Generation
One of the most exciting takeaways? The potential for technology to attract a new generation of professionals to careers in sterile services. With advanced equipment, clear career pathways, and impactful work, the future of sterile reprocessing is not only more efficient—it’s more inspiring.
A Final Word
We extend our sincere thanks to NPAG for the opportunity to present. Events like these are vital for sharing knowledge, sparking innovation, and driving progress. At Medical Intelligence Systems, we’re proud to be part of the solution—and we’re just getting started.
Join the MiS revolution. The time to change is now.