IQ Endoscopes introduced a single-use diagnostic tool to address the growing demand for endoscopy procedures in the NHS, particularly reducing waiting times. The technology complements existing reusable devices, offering scalable solutions to healthcare settings.
Introduction
IQ Endoscopes, founded by Dr. Patrick W. Booth, has developed a pioneering single-use endoscopy device aimed at solving the NHS’s pressing challenges, including long waiting lists for procedures. The technology works alongside traditional reusable devices, adding crucial capacity across outpatient, community, and clinic settings.
Project Aims
The project was initiated to provide a scalable solution to the growing demand for endoscopy procedures in Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, reducing waiting times by introducing additional capacity through single-use technology. The aim was to complement existing devices rather than replace them, improving patient access to vital diagnostics.
Project Kick-off
The project began with rigorous clinical research and development to ensure that the device met NHS standards. Collaboration with clinicians and stakeholders, including managers, was key to shaping the product’s design. £750,000 Investment received from the Cardiff Capital Religions Challenge Fund was vital in directing resources toward early-stage development and market validation and adoption.
Project Challenges
Challenges included navigating the regulatory landscape for single-use medical devices, addressing sustainability concerns, and ensuring the device met clinical requirements. IQ Endoscopes worked closely with clinicians to adapt the design based on real-world feedback and address health economic considerations. The importance of early collaboration with healthcare professionals proved invaluable.
Project Outcomes
IQ Endoscopes successfully developed a single-use endoscopy device that received positive clinical feedback for its image quality and lightweight design. The project led to over 30 jobs created in Wales, with the company now focused on moving toward commercialisation. The device is set to improve patient access to diagnostics by increasing capacity and tackling Cardiff and Vale University Health Board waiting lists. Phase two of the challenge focused on the development of a sustainable product that was integrated into manufacturing process, ensuring environmental responsibility.
Project Funding
The project was led by Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and supported by the Challenge Fund, which provided essential resources for product development, research, and clinical trials.
Project Team and Partners
Key partners included healthcare professionals from Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, CEDAR, Simply DO, Cardiff Capital Regions: Challenge Fund, and IQ Endoscopes’ internal engineering and regulatory teams. Clinicians provided critical feedback to refine the device, while managers ensured that the product aligned with NHS needs.
Next Steps
The next steps involve completing the regulatory approvals, preparing for commercialisation, and expanding the company’s product line. IQ Endoscopes aims to generate evidence through academic partnerships to demonstrate the value of their technology in diverse healthcare settings.
Zoe Hilton, Innovation Programme Manager, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board said:
"It has been a pleasure working with IQ Endoscopes for the past two years on the CCR Challenge Fund Endoscopy Challenge. IQ has consistently responded to every challenge presented by the endoscopy, sustainability, and value in health teams. They have worked diligently to adapt and overcome these obstacles as they arose, resulting in a product that we believe will meet the needs of the service, provide value, and offer a better experience for our patients. I look forward to this final phase and the opportunities it will bring."
Matt Ginn, CEO of IQ Endoscopes said:
"In conjunction with the team at Cardiff and Vale we have uncovered and proven some clinical areas where our Single Use Endoscopic technology could deliver quicker diagnosis for patients and huge advantages for clinicians. Furthermore, we have worked very hard to overcome any sustainability or environmental concerns from both clinical and procurement around the use of our technology."
To learn more about IQ Endoscopes and their innovative solutions, visit the IQ Endoscopes website.