The New NHS IP Rules: A Green Light For MedTech

In November, the NHS published their updated Intellectual property (IP) guidance for the NHS in England. The guidance emphasises the importance of innovation in the overarching NHS strategy to improve patient care and drive forward healthcare reform. This latest guidance explains what a critical tool IP is in the development and implementation of this strategy. 

The new guidance brings a shift to the way the NHS views IP ownership and so should be welcome news to those in the MedTech sector who collaborate with them.

For over twenty years, setting up Intellectual Property (IP) agreements with the NHS has been a complex process. Historically, NHS Trusts often looked to keep ownership of IP generated during collaborations to ensure a return on public investment. However, this new guidance shifts the focus. The new framework recognises that commercial partners are often best placed to develop and scale new products for patient benefit.